Injury update: Key Barcelona star doing part of the training with the group today

In a major boost for Barcelona, key midfielder Pedri is doing part of the training session with the rest of the team today as he steps up his recovery from injury, reports Gerard Romero.

Pedri has been out of action for a month now, having picked up a thigh injury during the UEFA Europa League knockout playoff first-leg tie against Manchester United at Spotify Camp Nou.

As a result, he has already missed six games across all competitions, which included the second leg of the Europa League tie versus Manchester United, which Barça lost, and the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Real Madrid that they won.

While the Blaugrana have won four of the six games that Pedri has been unavailable for, they have lacked the fluent play and creativity from the middle of the park that the 20-year-old brings to the table.

So, his return to team training, even if it is only for a part of it, is a major boost given that Barcelona will perhaps play their biggest game of the season later this week.

Indeed, the Catalans will lock horns with Real Madrid once again, this time in La Liga, in what will be a title-defining encounter.

Barcelona have taken a nine-point lead at the top of the table following the 1-0 win over Athletic Club on Sunday. A victory over Real Madrid later this week would widen the gap to 12 points and all but guarantee the title, barring any major mishaps.

And Pedri’s return to training is certainly a good sign for Xavi Hernandez & co. The 20-year-old has made 30 appearances across all competitions this season and has scored seven goals.

While the midfielder will be in contention to feature against Real Madrid this weekend, the same cannot be said about Ousmane Dembele, whose recovery is progressing slower than anticipated.