Abidal in Barca squad for Celta Vigo trip

Eric Abidal could be about to play his first match since undergoing a liver transplant after being named in Barcelona's squad for Celta Vigo.

The French defender was cleared to return to football last month by doctors, having been out of action for over a year. His last appearance came against Atletico Madrid on February 26, 2012.

He underwent his transplant last April, having undergone initial liver surgery in March 2011 when he missed only seven weeks of action, returning in time for the Champions League victory over Manchester United that year.

Abidal, who helped France reach the 2006 World Cup final, has been a Barcelona player since 2007.

Barcelona confirmed on their official website that Abidal was in the 19-man party travelling to Vigo.
His Barcelona team-mate, striker David Villa, posted a picture of the pair together on Twitter on Friday evening, writing: "An example for everyone! Congratulations Abi!"

While Abidal nears his return, Lionel Messi goes into Saturday's La Liga match on the brink of another incredible record.

The Argentinian has scored in his last 18 consecutive league matches and, should he find the net again, would become the first man ever to score in successive games against every team in the Spanish top flight.

Those 18 games have brought 28 goals, helping the Catalans hold a 13-point lead over bitter rivals Real Madrid at the top of the standings.