FCBARCELONA.CAT

01.01.2008 20:17

Edmílson back in squad after 7 months

www.fcbarcelona.cat

The Brazilian is the main change ahead of the game against Alcoyano. Reserve players Oier, Víctor Sánchez and Marc Valiente have also been picked but Ronaldinho is out with tendonitis in his left leg.

Six months after his knee operation, José Edmílson is back in the side. He is one of the 16 players in the side for Wednesday’s Copa del Rey match. Frank Rijkaard has also picked B team players Oier Olazábal (number 28), Víctor Sánchez (number 30) and Marc Valiente (number 31). The Dutch manager has rested a number of first team players and is also missing the injured Ronaldinho.

First training of the year

Rijkaard held a training session behind closed doors at La Masia today, with the Alcoyano match on most people’s minds. For reserve players were involved, namely Oier, Víctor Sánchez, Busquets and Marc Valiente. Gaby Milito also joined the group after working in isolation for the last few days.

The only player missing was Zambrotta, was has flu. Oleguer continued his treatment programme in the gym and Henry is still getting over a migraine. Ronaldinho was also away recovering from his injury.

The day started with the players congratulating Lilian Thuram on his 36th birthday.