FCBARCELONA.CAT

15.05.2010 12:23

Preparations continue for crunch encounter

Vanessa Forns

Barça held their second to last training session before the last game of the season against Valladolid, a game they have to win to be guaranteed the championship for the second year running.

Josep Guardiola and his men are just a day away from the big match, and like on Friday gathered behind closed doors at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, only this time the rain had been replaced by sunshine - with Dani Alves proclaiming aloud his joy to see that the clouds finally seem to have dispersed.

Keita and Iniesta look fit

All 21 players took full part in the proceedings, including Keita, who doesn’t seem to have any more problems with his Achilles tendon, and Iniesta, who is also progressing well from his injury sustained on April 13.

Guardiola once again also called in Thiago from the reserve team, probably with an eye to using him as possible cover for Xavi, who misses Sunday’s game though suspension but trained today with the squad.

The session began with a brief team talk in the centre of the field, followed by the usual warm-ups and practice drills.

Maxwell with fitness coach

Maxwell also appeared for the first time since he was hit with a femoral biceps injury against Sevilla, which will see him sidelined for about three weeks.