Injured Barcelona star returns to group training ahead of Newcastle United clash | OneFootball

FC Barcelona faced Valencia at the Estadi Johan Cruyff last night without many of their first-choice players, including Lamine Yamal, Frenkie de Jong, Alejandro Balde, and Gavi.

However, this did not affect the result, as the Catalan club blew Valencia away with a 6-0 win. Braces from Fermin Lopez, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha helped Hansi Flick’s men inflict their first drubbing of the season.

Now, according to Gerard Romero, Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong rejoined group training. Unlike the starters from last night’s match, who focused on recovery work, De Jong trained normally with the rest of the squad and hopes to be ready in time for the game against Newcastle United.

A trip to St James’ Park will be a test for the Catalan club, and having Frenkie would make it much more comfortable for Hansi Flick’s side. He could slot in for Marc Casado in midfield and would add a lot of quality in possession.

As good as Casado looked against Valencia last night, he is not as dynamic as Frenkie, and the Dutchman is one of the first names on the team sheet when fit. He has forged a brilliant partnership with Pedri, and the duo is crucial to how the Flick’s team plays.

One advantage for Barcelona this week is that their game against the Magpies is only on Thursday, giving the injured players the best chance of recovering in time for the game. Frenkie is back in group training, and one hopes Lamine returns too.

It will be interesting to keep an eye on how Frenkie fares in training in the coming days. If he gets the green light, there is little doubt he is likely to start in England, and only time will tell how it plays out.