Gavi leaves fans stunned with TWO head-first tackles in Barcelona's win against Athletic Bilbao

Barcelona legend Carles Puyol have Gavi his seal of approval after two dangerous head-first tackles on Sunday.

The 18-year-old Barca midfielder dived to stop a pass from Athletic Blibao's Dani Garcia in the first half, putting his head worrying close to the defender's foot as the ball was cleared away.

Not satisfied with one close-call, he dived in for another knee-high headed tackle after the break.

Xavi's side went on to restore their nine point lead at the top of La Liga as they ran out 1-0 winners, but it was Gavi's show of commitment that caught Puyol's eye.

The former defender, who won three Champions Leagues at the Nou Camp and made close to 600 appearances, tweeted a series of clapping emojis in response to the first challenge.

LaLigaTV seemed more alarmed for the midfielder, as they posted the clip with the caption 'Gavi putting his literal head on the line for Barca.'

Fans generally seemed to join Puyol in respecting the teenager's dedication to win the ball back.

One labelled the effort 'superb' and added 'this guy is something', while others felt he demanded 'respect' from supporters.

He was even called 'the Puyol version of midfield' after the former Barca captain's famously robust and fearless style of defending.

Aside from Gavi's antics, Barca's tight win on Sunday continued an ominous title charge.

They have now won 11 games 1-0, the most in Europe's top five leagues, and seem able to grind out results even when they are below their best.

Xavi's side will play a key El Clasico clash on Sunday. A win would put them 12 points clear at the top of La Liga with just 12 games left to play.

With No European football to contend with after their Europa League exit to Manchester United, such a lead could tie up the title race before the end of March.

Real will next be in action when they look to defend a 5-2 Champions League advantage over Liverpool in the second leg of their last 16 tie on Wednesday.