Luis Suarez was the match-winner for Barcelona for the second time in five days as the Catalans closed the gap on La Liga leaders Real Madrid to one point with victory at Granada.

The Uruguayan had a role in all three goals as Barcelona were forced to work hard for the three points against their second-from-bottom hosts.

Ivan Rakitic put Barca in front when Suarez’s first half shot was deflected into his path. The same combination helped double the lead after the interval when the Croatian released Suarez in the penalty box.

After Granada had pulled a goal back from the penalty spot, Rakitic again set Suarez free and the striker round the goalkeeper before teeing up Lionel Messi for the simplest of finishes as Barcelona ran out 3-1 victors.

Coming on the back of his Champions League double in the midweek victory at Manchester City, the performance was enough to ensure Suarez was singled out for praise by the Barcelona manager.

“Perhaps he is now more prominent than before but since he started with us he has been playing at a high level,” Enrique told the press afterwards. “For us he keeps doing a good job.”

Barcelona’s victory over the Premier League champions Manchester City means they are now 4.30 to win the Champions League this season.

Having dropped points at home to Malaga last weekend and travelled to England in midweek, Enrique paid tribute to the effort and applications of his team in securing three points at Granada.

“I am very happy and satisfied with the work done by my team, it was very difficult after the Champions League game,” he added.