Xavi on Memphis injury worry, plus Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati and Pedri

Xavi on Memphis injury worry, plus Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati and Pedri

Depay / | sport

The coach spoke ahead of the clash with Athletic Bilbao on Thursday in the Copa del Rey

Memphis Depay’s absence from training was bad news for Barcelona on Wednesday. The Dutch forward had to work by himself and Xavi spoke about it.

“Memphis has some small problems, he felt it again a bit, tomorrow we’ll decide on him,” said Xavi. If he is not in the squad then there’s one less option in attack.

“Ansu, Jutgla, even Ferran Torres,” said Xavi over who could play upfront. “We look for a player who gives us movement without the ball.”

There’s a chance Martin Braithwaite could return.

“We’ll see tomorrow, he’s another player for the team, he could get minutes. He’s very professional and has come back quickly from injury. He’s a great professional and a winner. He’ll be back with us soon.”

On Ferran Torres, who made his debut in the Super Cup, he said: “He’s going well, maybe he lacked match fitness. This week has been very positive. He’s recovered from his injury 100 per cent and tomorrow will be important.”

On Ansu Fati he was a little more prudent. “Ansu has been out longer than Pedri, but he’s almost 100 per cent. Recovering them is fundamental. They are players who can make a difference now and in the future.”

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