Sport

Messi on target as Barca draw in Milan

LIONEL Messi scored on his starting return to Barcelona's line-up as they drew 1-1 with AC Milan at the San Siro last night.

Messi has been sidelined by injury - which forced him to miss Argentina's World Cup qualifiers last week - but was needed to claim a point after a defensive howler gifted Milan the lead.

Javier Mascherano and Gerard Pique were at fault to allow Robinho to combine with Kaka before putting his side ahead.

Messi replied on 23 minutes after he was afforded too much space, but despite the visitors dominating thereafter they were unable to find a winner, Riccardo Montolivo thwarting them on several occassions as he became overworked in midfield.

Barcelona top Group H with seven points, with AC Milan having five. Celtic come next after last night's win over Ajax in Glasgow.