As Barcelona get set to take on FC Porto in the fifth round of the UEFA Champions League group stages on Tuesday, they are sweating over the availability of one of their most important players.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen missed this past weekend’s La Liga encounter versus Rayo Vallecano as he was dealing with a lower back issue.
And, heading into Tuesday’s clash against Porto, which is a must-win affair for the Blaugrana after their misstep in the Shakhtar Donetsk encounter, there is still a lack of clarity over the German international’s availability.
Ter Stegen to be tested today
And, as per Mundo Deportivo, Marc-Andre ter Stegen will be tested during today’s training to assess whether he is ready to make a comeback for tomorrow’s clash against Porto or not.
The 31-year-old goalkeeper picked up the lower back discomfort shortly after joining the German national team camp during the international break.
Ter Stegen returned to Barça without playing any matches for Die Mannschaft and it was initially anticipated that he would be ready in time for the clash against Rayo this past weekend.
But, the former Borussia Monchengladbach ace was still dealing with some discomfort and did not train with the group for the entire week, and it was decided not to rush him back.
Ter Stegen will now be examined again today to decide whether he is ready to face Porto or if Inaki Pena will have to continue in goal for the Catalan heavyweights again.
Sergi Roberto to return
Apart from Ter Stegen, Barcelona were missing another of their captain for Saturday’s clash versus Rayo Vallecano as Sergi Roberto was still not fully recovered from his muscle injury.
Having missed the last seven games for the club though the versatile right-back is expected to receive medical clearance for the game against Porto.
That comes as a positive boost for Xavi as he will have an added option for the right-back position and in midfield as well.
Meanwhile, the likes of Raphinha and Ronald Araujo are expected to return to the starting lineup vs Porto after being benched against Rayo Vallecano.
