Lionel Messi criticises "arrogant" referees

Barcelona star Lionel Messi has criticised La Liga referees for their arrogance and lack of communication.

The Argentine international made the comments following the Catalan giants' 0-0 draw with struggling Villarreal.

As Barcelona pressed for a late winner, Dani Alves, Thiago Alcántara and coach Pep Guardiola were all booked for protesting decisions made by referee Teixeira Vitienes. Messi has now said that he and his teammates should have more opportunity to discuss decisions with the match officials, rather than be waved away.

"I do not like to talk about referees," said the 24-year-old.

"But sometimes they are arrogant and threaten to show you a card for the smallest thing.

"They can be good or bad, but I think you should be able to talk to them more."

The result against Villarreal saw Barcelona drop seven points behind title rivals Real Madrid.