Injury update: Messi’s foot has improved: club statement

The top scorer in Spain’s top flight with 32 goals did not feature in either of Argentina’s friendlies during the international break after sustaining a blow to his right foot in last month’s El Clasico against Real Madrid.

After arriving back in the Catalan capital on Thursday, Messi and international team mate Javier Mascherano did some light running and stretching at Barca’s training ground despite not being due back until Friday, said the league leaders on their website.

“The inflammation of Messi’s foot has improved and the player will attempt to join the rest of the internationals tomorrow,” they added. Barca’s 2-1 win at home to Real stretched the lead over their arch-rivals to four points with 10 games left.