Lionel Messi stole the show with two free-kick goals in a scintillating display as Barcelona maintained their lead at the top of La Liga with a commanding 4-0 derby win over Espanyol.

The Argentine superstar curled home two sensational set-pieces and set up another goal as he and his teammates romped to victory and made sure Barca kept chasing Atletico Madrid and Sevilla at bay.

The Barca captain also produced a moment of magic to set up Ousmane Dembele for a fine finish on the day he became the first La Liga player to score at least 10 league goals in 13 consecutive seasons.

His record-breaking display came just five days after the 31-year-old was placed fifth in the voting for the Ballon d’Or, the first time he has finished outside the top three since 2006.

But his teaammate Sergio Busquets is in no doubt where Messi ranks among the elite.

“We already know what Leo is capable of and it’s a pleasure to see him on a daily basis,” Busquets said to Movistar.

“The level of effectiveness he has in training and matches is tremendous.

“He is fundamental in free-kicks, in open play, that’s why he’s the best player in the world.”