FC Barcelona coach Luis Enrique warned his players that they face their toughest away game of the season when they visit Real Sociedad in the Anoeta Stadium on Saturday night.

Barca have a six point lead over Atletico Madrid and seven over Real Madrid at the top of the BBVA Primera Liga table, but that lead could have been cut to 3 and 4 points respectively if the two sides from the capital win their respective games, which both finish before Barca's kicks off.

That would add pressure to Barca, who have not win in Anoeta since 2006.

"We will have to look at why that happened as the pitch is always in good condition. It is a long run and we have to reflect on that," said the Barca coach, who wanted it would be "a really difficult game... our most difficult away match in the season."

The coach refused to say that a win for his side would be a big step towards retaining the title.

"The league is no closer if we do win. There is a long way to go and it is always hard to win, so until it is mathematically certain we have to carry on," he said.

The game comes before Barca defend a 2-1 lead over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League next Wednesday night, but the coach "would not give any clues" about squad rotations and insisted "the only game that exists is in Anoeta and it is the league that matters."

Enrique also defended Luis Suarez, who is suspended on Saturday and has come in for criticism after appearing to kick out at Atletico defender Juanfran in the Camp Nou last Tuesday.

"Only defenders can kick you here and nothing happens. He is a Uruguayan, he has personality and character. He is doing well, but we know he is watched closely... I am delighted at the way he plays and there is nobody in the world like him," he explained.