Xavi hails Villa return in Barca rout

Barcelona midfielder Xavi hailed the long-awaited return of striker David Villa as the best thing about his side’s season-opening 5-1 mauling of Real Sociedad.

Villa made his first competitive appearance since breaking his leg at the end of last year after replacing Pedro in the 75th minute of last night’s game at the Nou Camp, and the striker enjoyed a dream comeback as he scored within nine minutes of his introduction.