Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde has revealed his frustration at his side’s inability to kill the game against Valencia after recovering from an early deficit to control the game.

The Catalans were 1-0 down within two minutes after failing to deal with a corner and conceding a sloppy goal, but Lionel Messi produced a brilliant equaliser 20 minutes later.

However, despite dominating the rest of the game, Barca were unable to break down a stubborn Valencia resistance as their hosts held on for a draw that leaves Valverde’s side in a winless run in La Liga that is now at four games.

The result also saw La Blaugrana relinquish control of top spot in the table, as they are now one point behind new leaders Sevilla.

“They defended very well and in the end we weren’t able to play that pass through to kill the game off,” Valverde said.