Vermaelen finally ready to start Barca career

Belgian defender Thomas Vermaelen has been given the all-clear to make his first appearance for Barcelona nearly nine months since he joined the Catalan giants.

Vermaelen has been plagued by hamstring problems that he originally suffered whilst representing his country at last year’s World Cup before sealing his reported 20 million-euro ($22 million, £14 million) move from Arsenal.

The 29-year-old had an operation on the injury in December, but could now have a role to play in Barca’s push for a treble of La Liga, Champions League and Copa del Rey.

“Five months after suffering an injury in his right hamstring, the Belgian player Thomas Vermaelen has been given the medical all-clear,” Barca said in a statement on Sunday.

Vermaelen’s return for Wednesday’s La Liga match at home to Getafe means coach Luis Enrique has a fully-fit squad to choose from for the first time this season.