The Argentina forward, back after three weeks out with a groin problem, scored his side's fourth seconds after coming off the bench.

Rafinha had put the hosts in control with a first-half brace, before Luis Suarez's clinical finish made it 3-0.

Deportivo's Laure was sent off for an elbow on Neymar in the second half.

The victory moved Barcelona up to second in the table one point behind leaders Sevilla, who won 3-2 at Leganes.

Atletico and Real Madrid - third and fourth respectively - both have the chance to claim top spot when they play later on Saturday.

Messi's display will be particularly pleasing for coach Luis Enrique before the visit of Manchester City in the Champions League next week.

That game will mark the return of former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola, whose City side were held to a 1-1 draw by Everton in the Premier League on Saturday.