Intro:

Barcelona, trailing La Liga leaders Real Madrid, face a tough trip to Valencia on Sunday (November 30).

Script:

Following their heavy defeat in the Clasico and a shock home loss to Celta Vigo, Barcelona were heavily criticised and looked a team in disarray.

Since then, the Blaugrana have recorded four wins in a row, and have scored nine in their last two games, with Luis Suarez finally opening his account against Apoel Nicosia in the Champions League.

In addition to the team's form, Lionel Messi has also come back to life, breaking both the all-time goal scoring record in both La Liga and the Champions League in the last two weeks.

Luis Enrique's side are two points behind Real Madrid in the table and can look forward to a tough test on the weekend as they prepare to face fourth placed Valencia on Sunday.

SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Luis Enrique, Barcelona coach:

"This next one is against a team that has won five games and drawn one. They have scored fifteen goals at their home stadium. This is a rival that is displaying this season a higher level than during the previous ones."

However, Barcelona can take heart from the numbers going into the match.

Valencia are without a win in their last two league fixtures, but more importantly Barca are unbeaten in their last seven league meetings at the Mestalla.

In addition, the Catalan side have won more away games against Valencia than they have against any other opponent.

While Valencia will certainly prove a stern test for Luis Enrique's men, league challengers Real Madrid will also face a tough task as they travel to sixth place Malaga on Saturday.