Spain and Barcelona midfielder Xavi has returned to action nearly five months after suffering a serious knee injury. Xavi came on as a second-half substitute in Barca’s 1-0 Primera Liga win at home to Cadiz on Saturday.

The 26-year-old Spanish international got a standing ovation when he stepped on to the Nou Camp pitch to replace Portugal midfielder Deco in the 80th minute of the match.

His recovery is great news for both Barcelona and Spain head coach Luis Aragones as the experienced playmaker will now be available for Barcelona’s Champions League final against Arsenal and back to fitness just in time to represent La Furia Roja in the World Cup in Germany.

Speaking after the match, Xavi told reporters: “It was an unforgettable night.”

“I've never received a reception like that before and it was great to feel useful again for the team and as a footballer.”

Xavi started the season in outstanding form, but tore the cruciate ligament in his right knee in a training session at the beginning of December.

It was initially thought the injury might sideline him for the rest of the season but he has made an excellent recovery.

Spain have been drawn in Group H in the World Cup Finals, alongside Ukraine, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia.

Bookmark/Search this post with:

delicious | digg | google | yahoo | technorati