FCBARCELONA.CAT

12.03.2008 19:24

Players prepare for Almería match

Berta Brau / Jordi Clos

The players were back in training on Wednesday evening at La Masía with the focus very much on the league visit to Almería.

Training recommenced on Wednesday after the players were given a day off on Tuesday. Preparations are now centred on Sunday’s league clash away to Almería (7 pm kick-off). There will be a further three training sessions before the match.

Absentees

Apart from the four players (Márquez, Messi, Ezquerro and Jorquera) already sidelined by injury, Touré Yaya was rested after receiving treatment for his back pain while Deco remained in the gym. Giovani (left ankle) was also absent.

Strength, speed and stamina

The 17-strong squad went through the usual warm-up routine and then Valdés and Pinto joined up with goalkeeping coach Juan Carlos Unzué. The rest of the players did some intensive circuit training focussed on building up their strength, speed and stamina. This was followed by a passing exercise in groups of three.

Training match

The session was rounded off with a nine-a-side training match on a reduced pitch. In the orange bibs Bojan, Sylvinho, Edmílson, Oleguer, Gudjohnsen, Puyol, Henry, Pinto and fitness coach Albert Roca. Without bibs Zambrotta, Ronaldinho, Eto'o, Xavi, Abidal, Milito, Iniesta, Thuram and Valdés.