The Argentine's hat-trick in Tuesday's 5-3 victory over Granada meant that he went two goals clear of the former top scorer, with 234 strikes in 314 official appearances.

His achievement has attracted praise from across the footballing world.

Speaking for the first time since that historic evening, Messi affirmed that he could not believe his new status as Barca's highest scorer, although he added that every goal for the Catalan giants meant just as much to him.

"The truth is that I am overjoyed. I never dreamed that one day I could be Barcelona's top scorer," he told Argentina newspaper Ole.

"I don't know if it was my best goal. When a game finishes, the first goal I scored for Barcelona, just like the last one and just like all the others, they are all very special to me."

Messi went on to praise Barcelona for all their support in his formative years, and explained that he could think of no better way to show his gratitude for what they had done for him since arriving from Rosario as a teenager.

"I have always wanted to repay Barcelona for all they have done for me. It makes me very proud to be part of the club's history. I could not have done this without the support of my companions," the ever-modest star said.

Messi thanked his native Argentina for their support following his record-breaking goals.

"I am delighted to see that in my own people are happy for me," he said.

Messi will have the chance to further add to his tally at the weekend, when Barcelona take on Mallorca.