Barcelona boss Luis Enrique says star striker Leo Messi could take his place in the line up against Real Madrid in two weeks time.
The Argentinean striker and talisman of Los Cules has been sidelined since the end of September with a cruciate ligament injury. While he has been on the treatment table, his fellow strikers Luis Suarez and Neymar have done their part to make up for his goals, and last season’s champions sit top of the table after 11 games, three points clear of their arch rivals.
Messi had long been penciled in for a return in the Clasico, which takes place on November 21 after the international fixtures. But some reports have suggsted the 28-year-old had suffered a set back in his recovery and could miss the high profile clash.
Following their 3-0 win over Villarreal, boss Enrique hinted that Messi could be back in the team though.
“[Messi’s] still in the recovery process. He only has two weeks left [and will be back] either before or after the game against Real Madrid,” Enrique told journalists.
Los Blancos will be hoping to have one of their key men – Gareth Bale – back for the clash. He is close to recovering from a calf problem picked up on international duty.