Barcelona vs Sporting de Gijon - Injury boost for Barcelona

Posted Wednesday, March 01, 2017 by PA

Javier Mascherano and Arda Turan could return from injury in time for Barcelona's LaLiga clash with Sporting Gijon on Wednesday.

The duo returned to training having both been sidelined since Barcelona's Copa Del Rey clash with Atletico Madrid on February 7.

Mascherano has overcome a hamstring problem while Turan has recovered from his groin issue.

Boss Luis Enrique told Barcelona's official website on Tuesday: "Mascherano and Arda have trained with the rest of the squad today and tomorrow the medical staff will confirm if they are available or not."

Lifelong Sporting fan Enrique started his decorated playing career at his hometown club, but insisted there will be no split loyalties at the Nou Camp.

"I have been a Sporting fan since the day I was born and I always wish them the best, but tomorrow I want all three points," he said.

While Barca stepped up the pressure on leaders Real Madrid with Sunday's 2-1 win at Atletico, Sporting are locked in a relegation dogfight.

New boss Rubi has mustered just one win in his six matches at the helm, but Enrique still believes the ex-Barcelona backroom staff member has already made positive changes at the club.

"Sporting have changed tactically all over the field and now perhaps they are more attacking," said Enrique.

"They are a dangerous side, as are all the sides at the bottom of the table because time is running out in the battle against relegation."

Rubi has admitted he remains concerned about his thinned resources owing to the suspension of defender Jorge Mere and Fernando Amorebieta being one booking away from a ban.

But Rubi has still challenged his embattled side to chase a victory at the Nou Camp.

Asked how to stop Barcelona, he told Gijon's official club website: "With detail, forcing them into situations unusual for them, with sacrifice, and being strong in defence.

"We must be aware that losing the ball unnecessarily can lead straight to a goal.

"We will go there in search of points and I want my team in the game for 90 minutes."