Xavi hails 'extraordinary' Lewandowski after double leads to convincing win for Barcelona

Barcelona manager Xavi hailed "extraordinary" Robert Lewandowski after the Polish striker scored twice in the 4-0 La Liga victory over Real Valladolid on Sunday evening.

A typical poacher's finish from Lewandowski on 24 minutes set Barcelona on their way at Camp Nou before teenage midfielder Pedri added a second just before half time.

Lewandowski, 34, struck again just past the hour to make it four goals in three matches since his high-profile summer arrival from Bayern Munich, with Sergi Roberto netting late on.

Barca climb up to third in the table on seven points from three matches, two behind leaders Real Madrid and second-placed Real Betis.

“Lewandowski is a natural goalscorer, but he also helps us a lot in defence,” Xavi said. “We all know what Lewandowski can do. He’s a striker of the highest calibre. He is an extraordinary player, a natural leader and a born worker. He is an example for the squad.

“Lewandowski is adaptable. He helps his colleagues and even helps us as the technical staff. It’s great to have him with us. Apart from the goals, I want to highlight Lewandowski’s timing. He has the ball and protects it often.”

Xavi handed Jules Kounde his first start after Barcelona were finally able to register the France defender, signed from Sevilla last month for a reported €50 million ($49.8m).

After a goalless draw on the opening weekend, Barca put four past Real Sociedad last time out, and the Catalans began in similar fashion with Lewandowski going close with an early header. He met an in-swinging delivery from Raphinha, but his glancing effort struck the post and rebounded off Valladolid goalkeeper Jordi Masip before trickling along the line to safety.

Pedri then spotted the run of Raphinha in behind but the