Neymar has paid tribute to his "best friend" Lionel Messi following Barcelona's emphatic 5-0 victory over Levante at the Camp Nou.

The Brazilian started the scoring before a Messi hat-trick and Luis Suarez's acrobatic effort secured the comfortable win, and Neymar was keen to praise his teammate, who was making his 300th La Liga appearance.

"Some things come easy to Barca and we just put in one of our best performances," the 23-year-old told Canal Plus.

"I'm very happy with the result. The other day I missed a penalty but these things happen. For me it is an honour to play alongside Messi, Luis Suarez and Pedro. Messi is the best friend I have, both at Barca and away from the football pitch."

The win leaves Barcelona just a point behind Real Madrid at the top of La Liga.