Real Betis vs. Barcelona: Umtiti back but Vermaelen set to continue for now

With La Liga looking good, Barcelona's big objective thinking about the Chelsea game in the Champions League is to get their injuredp layers back. To go into that game against the English side with the most players available possible. In that sense, Ernesto Valverde has a reason to smile: Samuel Umtiti is back and Philippe Coutinhi has started training -- his debut is close.  

He's unlikely to start against Real Betis in Seville, but the Umtiti is fit again and in the squad. Thomas Vermaelen has done well in his absence, but the former Lyon player will win his place back. The Belgian has earned, at least, the right to play more within Valverde's rotations. Who still needs to convince the coach is Yerry Mina. The Colombian has his registration through but is not in the squad.

Also not travelling to Seville are Mascherano, Iniesta, Alcácer, Dembélé, Denis Suárez and Rafinha. Mascherano and Iniesta have minor muscle problems, while Alacer and Dembele are still injured. Denis has been left out for technical reasons and Rafinha's finalising a move to Inter Milan. 

Barcelona will look to get back to winning ways after the Copa del Rey loss to Espanyol with Semedo at right-back, allowing Sergi Roberto to move into midfield. Paulinho won't be risked, either, with Andre Gomes likely to come in for Iniesta. There will be few other surprises in the Barça side as they look to beat Betis, who have impressed in spells throughout the season. 

With Atletico drawing with Girona and Valencia losing to Las Palmas, Barça can move 11 points clear in La Liga.