FCBARCELONA.CAT

16.05.2007 11:41

Barça focussing on Atlético

Sandra Sarmiento/Aleix Santacana

Rafael Márquez returned to training with the rest of the squad on Wednesday morning as the playes begin preparations for the crucial encounter with Atlético de Madrid this weekend.

The Mexican international warmed up and took part in some exercises with the squad as he continues his recuperation from a leg injury that has kept him out of action since the end of April. Over the past couple of days he has been working alone on the Camp Nou pitch, before teaming up with the players as he approaches full fitness.

Deco in the gym

Deco was the only absentee from the session on Wednesday as the Portuguese playmaker worked on recovering from a blow to his left ankle by working on a specific programme in the gymnasium. On Thursday it is predicted that he will be able to go back to normal training.

Physical training

The rest of the Barça squad looked keen and enthusiastic in their session as they know what is at stake in the remaining four games of the campaign. After starting with the usual warm-up games, Frank Rijkaard put his charges through an obstacle circuit, working with and without the ball, to improve their physical condition. Finally an exercise to improve pressure and recovery rounded off the morning's work.

Barça's squad will continue to prepare for the game on Sunday by working in the club's Mini Estadi on Thursday.