FCBARCELONA.CAT

30.04.2007 12:23

Edmilson back in training

Sandra Sarmiento / Roger Bogunyà

Edmilson returned to training with the rest of the squad on Monday morning.

The absence through injury of Rafa Márquez looks likely to be compensated in the next few days by the return to fitness of José Edmilson. The Brazilian worked out on Monday morning with the players who lined up against Levante and, if all goes according to plan, he should be given the medical all-clear on Wednesday.

However, there was more injury woe for Barca on Monday morning as Messi, Ronaldinho and Oleguer were all absent due to the knocks they picked up on Sunday. Zambrotta, another player carrying an injury from the tough game against Levante, retired to the treatment room after a short warm-up session.

Belletti nearing fitness

Meanwhile, Club doctors have confirmed that Juliano Belletti, who has been following a recovery programme with fitness coach Juanjo Brau, should be able to return to training with the rest of the squad some time towards the end of this week.

Finally, Motta and Márquez were also both absent. Márquez looks set to be out for the next fortnight.

Training and conversation

The main aim of today’s session was to help the players recover from their efforts on Sunday against Levante. They took part in ball control exercises – including Rijkaard himself – and did some circuit training. Txiki Begiristain was present for the entire session, taking a close interest in proceedings and spending some time in conversation with Frank Rijkaard.