Pique discharged from hospital

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique was this morning released from hospital following a heavy collision with team-mate Victor Valdes during the Champions League semi-final defeat to Chelsea last night.

The 25-year-old was injured after 17 minutes in the clash with the goalkeeper, which appeared to leave him briefly unconscious.

Pique tried to play on but was substituted eight minutes later and taken to hospital with suspected concussion.

A statement from Barcelona said: “Gerard Pique has been discharged from hospital after follow-up medical tests proved satisfactory.

“The Barcelona FC defender spent the night in hospital under observation after a heavy collision with Didier Drogba and Victor Valdes in the early stages of the match against Chelsea.

“The player will now rest for a week before being re-assessed.”

Barca were held to a 2-2 draw by 10-man Chelsea at the Nou Camp, losing 3-2 on aggregate.