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.