Gerardo Martino praises Diego Simeone

Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino has praised the influence of Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid.

The two Argentines have guided their teams to 49 points in La Liga this season, but Martino, who took charge of Barca last summer, believes that Simeone has been "far more impressive" than him this season.

"I think what Diego Simeone has done at Atletico Madrid is far more impressive than what I've done here," Martino told reporters at a press conference.

"You have to consider the squad I have got and considering how far Cholo's side have come on since he first arrived there. Is it hard to choose a team with the squad I have to choose from? If I have a problem with this squad, imagine what the rest of the coaches must think! My position is much easier.

"First, though, we must focus on Getafe. There will be enough time to think about the league and Atletico. This weekend's match is being talked about more outside the dressing room than in it."

Atletico welcome Barcelona to the Vicente Calderon in La Liga on Saturday.