'I have a family and I'm not going to take any risks' - Abidal cautious over return

The Frenchman has been sidelined since undergoing a liver transplant earlier this year, but has vowed not to rush back into action as his priorities lie elsewhere

Barcelona defender Eric Abidal has promised that he will not to return to action too soon following his liver transplant earlier this year.

The Frenchman underwent the procedure in April and has been working his way back to health since. Football is not the chief priority for the former Olympique Lyonnais left-back, who has said that his priorities lie with his family.

"My wish is to return and at the moment I'm very happy because I feel great," he told TV3.

"I want to play, but I have a family and I'm not going to take any risks. The first priority for me is them, and then myself.

"If I can play then perfect, and if not I can be with my family and the people who love me."

Abidal was first diagnosed with cancer in March 2011 but made a return at the end of the 2010-11 season to lift the Champions League trophy with the Blaugrana.