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Messi Could Still Be Fit For Barcelona - Real Madrid Clash

The talismanic forward hopes to return in time for El Clasico.

Nov 22, 2009 1:15:16 PM

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Lionel Messi, Barcelona (MARCA)

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Barcelona star Lionel Messi may recover from his injury sustained against Athletic Bilbao in time for the crucial clash with Real Madrid next weekend, according to the Catalan club’s medical staff.

The Argentine suffered a leg injury during the 1-1 draw at San Mames on Saturday night and it was initially believed that the 22-year old was definitely out of El Clasico and also the vital match against Inter in the Champions League in midweek.

However, club doctors have carried out more stringent tests and have declared that the knock is not as serious as initially feared and that Messi could feature in both encounters.

A source close to Messi confirmed to Goal.com that Messi is fully expected to start the match at the Camp Nou next weekend against the league leaders, while a decision will be made prior to kick off whether to risk him against the Italian side.

Messi’s injury sees him join the growing list of players with knocks for coach Pep Guardiola.

Striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic faces a fitness battle to face his former side as a result of a hamstring injury, while both Yaya Toure and Rafael Marquez have been tested for flu-like symptoms over the weekend.

Paul Macdonald, Goal.com

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