There is good news for Cules! Ahead of Saturday's El Clasico with the potential to decide La Liga pole position, Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez expressed hope that forward Robert Lewandowski will be match fit to take on the archrivals.
The gaffer, however, added that he was in no hurry to rush the Polish striker back into action. "I can't reveal the line-up right now, but (Lewandowski) is fine and I'll make my decision tomorrow," Xavi was quoted as saying by Reuters in a press conference.
"It's complicated (to take risks with injured players) and in the end only those who are 100% will play tomorrow." Xavi reportedly added.
As many as seven of Barcelona's first-team players were ruled out due to injury in recent weeks. However, the Catalans have done exceptionally well with a depleted pool to choose from, effectively making use of its academy rookies.
According to reports, Xavi was relieved on Friday as Robert Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, Jules Kounde, Raphinha and Pedri participated in training before the big game. Defender Joules Kounde and midfielders Pedri and Sergi Roberto have been ruled out, but Lewandowski, De Jong and Raphinha are ahead of schedule in their recoveries.
Real Madrid are La Liga leaders as things stand -- level with Girona, the surprise packages of the season, on 25 points from 10 games. Barcelona are third on 24 points, two ahead of Atletico Madrid, who have a game in hand.
