Luis Enrique highlighted the importance of Luis Suarez for Barcelona after the striker's hat-trick in Sunday's 3-1 win over Eibar, calling him "invaluable" and "irreplaceable".
Barcelona conceded an early opening goal, but Suarez then netted thrice to guide the Catalans to victory and take his La Liga tally for the season to seven goals in eight appearances.
The Catalans managed to keep pace with Real Madrid at the top of the table after the result, and Enrique was eager to laud his striker as vital to their success this season.
"We know the importance of Luis. What he gives you is invaluable, non-negotiable," the coach told reporters at a press conference.
"If he then finishes in the area, that's great. He's essential and irreplaceable."
Barcelona struggled to find their best form in the opening 45 minutes, but improved after the break.
"We tried to fix the problems we had in the first half. With a team like Eibar, unbeaten away from home, it’s normal that we had trouble to get going," Luis Enrique added.
"Fortunately, we won the game with intensity and effectiveness in the final stretch.
"Going out there with three defenders isn't a problem as long as we are successful, but it isn't an exact science. It's about working hard and doing it better."