MADRID, Sept. 24 (Xinhua) -- FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said on Tuesday that players such as 17-year-old forward Lamine Yamal need to be "looked after" to stop them picking up injuries from either playing too many minutes or from bad tackles.

Yamal produced another stellar display in Barcelona's 5-1 win in Villarreal on Sunday, but was also on the wrong side of a couple of heavy challenges from home defenders.

Given the teenager's importance to his side this season, his loss through injury would be a major blow to Flick's plans, and he was asked about the need to protect him in his press conference ahead of Wednesday's La Liga game at home to Getafe.

"We have to look after all the players," responded Flick, who added that he thought "referees are doing well, they're looking after them."

"We have to look after Lamine, of course, because what he does with the ball is incredible. But we have to look after all the players," said the coach.

Flick was also asked if he would consider resting Yamal for Wednesday's game against a rival that still hasn't won this season.

"At the moment, it doesn't seem like he needs to rest. He's fine, he feels fine... We'll evaluate him, but I don't think Lamine needs to rest. He is doing incredible things. Is he the best? (in the world). He could be, one hundred percent sure," continued the coach.

Flick also said that he was "very comfortable" with Inaki Pena, who will be playing in goal for the foreseeable future after Marc-Andre ter Stegen suffered a season-ending torn knee ligament in Villarreal.

He refused to say in Barca would sign a new goalkeeper as cover for Ter Stegen, but said the club would "value the different options," but that they were "not under pressure," to bring in a replacement. Enditem

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