Barcelona’s Xavi: Eric Abidal is ‘an example to all humanity’

Posted Thursday, May 26, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

Barcelona midfielder Xavi hailed his teammate Eric Abidal for his ability to take to the pitch after just recovering from cancer.

The French defender underwent an operation in March to have a tumor removed from his liver, but has made a quick recovery to put himself back in the Barca lineup.

Abidal started Barcelona’s last three Primera Division matches against Levante, Deportivo La Coruna and Malaga and could be in the lineup against Manchester United in the final of the Champions League final on Saturday evening.

The 31-year-old’s recovery and heart to play again after just recovering from cancer has impressed Xavi, who showers praised on him for being “an example” to everyone.

"He has shown he is an example to all humanity," said the midfielder, according to PA. "For everything he represents - his values, his competitiveness, his recovery, his involvement, and overcoming [the illness] and wanting to be back. You wouldn't have thought he had even had an operation.

"I haven't lived a situation as bad as that - it was a question of life or death. Now he is back and he's just as strong as he was before the operation - it's amazing. He's an example for so many people. He transmitted such calm. We were more anxious than he was. His return is great news."

Abidal was suspended for the Champions League final in 2009 that Barca defeated Man United 2-0 in Rome. This time, though, the former Lyon left back is likely to come on at some stage, says Xavi.

"He is training well, he is looking strong and he is excited," he said. "He missed the final last time and the [Copa del Rey] final [to Real Madrid] last month, so he has that thorn in his side."