Xavi amazed by Abidal’s rapid return

BARCELONA midfielder Xavi has said team-mate Eric Abidal is an “example to humanity” following his speedy recovery from cancer.

Abidal was in fine form earlier this season but was laid low in March when a tumour was detected in his liver.

The France full-back was forced to have surgery to remove the tumour and has made a sensational recovery to start Barcelona’s last two league matches.

Xavi says he has been amazed by his team-mate’s rapid return to action.

“He has shown he is an example to all humanity,” Xavi said. “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. He’s just as strong as he was before the operation — it’s amazing.”

Barca coach Pep Guardiola is believed to be reluctant to field both Carles Puyol and Abidal, however, the pair having only recently returned to fitness, but the Frenchman says he is just happy to back — whether he starts or not.

“I was two months without playing, but I worked hard to return and I am happy to be part of the group,” Abidal said.