Abidal endures tough recovery

Barcelona defender Eric Abidal said he is ‘suffering’ as he continues his recovery from a liver transplant.

Abidal looks set to play for the Catalan club again, having returned to training with the round ball last week, but the 33-year-old has revealed the strain he has put himself under to get back to professional football.

In an interview with TV3, Abidal said he is almost constantly with club physiotherapist Emili Ricart in a bid to boost his recovery process.

“I have to work hard, it is difficult, but to get back to my level I have to go this route because otherwise I will not get there,” he said.

“Physically I’m suffering, but I need it. I have to be strong mentally, so you have more stamina and I’ll recover soon.”

Asked what his next target was on the road to recovery was, the ex-Lyon man was cautious not to do too much too soon.

He added: “I must follow Emili to get to Barcelona and work with Juanjo (Brau) to do more field work. I have no hurry to return to the group.”