Enrique encouraged as Gomes goal mutes jeers

BARCELONA - Barcelona coach Luis Enrique said midfielder Andre Gomes will become a pillar of the Catalans' midfield after silencing his critics with his first goal for the club in a 4-2 win over Valencia on Sunday.

Enrique has been criticized for keeping faith with Gomes despite the 23-year-old's underwhelming performances since moving from Valencia last July for a fee that could rise to $59 million.

"Andre Gomes will be a very valuable player for Barca in the future, you will see," said Enrique, who is stepping down as coach at the end of the season.