Hansi Flick has explained why Marcus Rashford started on the subs bench for Barcelona's Champions League showdown against Chelsea on Tuesday - pointing to Ferran Torres' recent goal-scoring form as a key factor. Rashford had been side-lined through illness for their La Liga triumph over Athletic Club last weekend - which influenced the manager's thinking.

Despite Rashford's absence, Barca cruised to an impressive victory at the Camp Nou - their first at the iconic stadium in several years - netting four goals while keeping their opponents at bay. Torres netted twice in that match, prompting Flick to hand him a starting berth for the European fixture at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Flick explained: "Ferran scored two goals on Saturday - and Marcus had been out for three or four days due to his injury. But he's ready to play at any moment."

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The Barcelona boss proved true to his word at the break, introducing Rashford in place of Torres - who had squandered a golden chance in the opening period - before matters soon deteriorated for the visitors. An unfortunate Jules Kounde own goal and Ronald Araujo's dismissal left Barcelona trailing and down to 10 men at half-time.

Rashford found it difficult to make an impact as Chelsea extended their advantage through a spectacular Estevao Willian effort and a composed Liam Delap finish.

The 28-year-old is unlikely to face harsh criticism for his display in west London, given the difficult circumstances, with Flick remaining a staunch admirer of Rashford - something he made abundantly clear when questioned about his integration into the squad earlier this week.

He said: "I'm really very happy [he is back]. We will decide tomorrow [Tuesday] if he plays from the beginning or if he comes in from the bench. But, as I said, I'm happy to have him in our team.

"Last time when we played Newcastle, I also said this. I've followed him, I think, his whole career... I was impressed about him, with his quality, what he is doing in the box, what he is doing in front of goal.

"He has also showed it with Barcelona, which is really good. But for him, this change to live in another culture. The people in Barcelona are fantastic, we have nice weather. For me, it's amazing.

"You can see now he is also smiling a lot, and if he can enjoy the atmosphere we have, it is also good for him."

The decision to make his transfer permanent from United is unlikely to rest with Flick, but 13 goal contributions so far this campaign suggests he's doing everything possible to ensure the £26million buy-option included in his loan deal gets triggered.

Ruben Amorim could desperately use Rashford right now following his side's failure to find the net against 10-man Everton on Monday night.

Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko were side-lined through injury for that defeat, with the latter facing several weeks out of action. Bryan Mbeumo will also be unavailable over the New Year period as he represents Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations.