Monday 18 January 2016, 13:18

A reflection of greatness

Displaying the spoils of victory, and football history, was the order of the day at the Camp Nou on Sunday as Lionel Messi showed off his latest FIFA Ballon d’Or award.

This was the Barcelona star’s fifth, of course – an unprecedented tally – and the club’s fans rose to acclaim a player who continues to rewrite all manner of records.

Messi himself was, however, typically modest in this moment of triumph, stating his desire to “share” the Ballon d’Or with the many people who have helped him maintain such extraordinary standards.

And, equally typically, he followed up this presentation with a goal – the 480th of his remarkable career – as the European and world champions ran out 6-0 winners against Athletic Bilbao.