Lionel Messi returned to full training with Barcelona on Wednesday, three weeks after suffering a groin strain against Atletico Madrid.
Messi limped out of last month’s 1-1 draw against Atletico at the Nou Camp and has missed three games, including the 4-3 defeat at Celta Vigo on 2 October.
France international defender Samuel Umtiti also returned to training alongside the Argentina star, although their availability for the weekend is still in doubt.
A club statement read: “Both Leo Messi and Samuel Umtiti, despite neither yet being declared fit for selection as they battle to recover from injury, were able to join the rest of the team for the workout.”
Luis Enrique’s side – two points behind early pacesetters Atletico – host Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday before lining up against Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday.
SKYSPORTS
