David Villa spoke to the press on Monday about his recovery and declared that he was nearing full fitness: “All things considered I’m very happy. I had a serious injury but luckily I’ve recovered well and I’m approaching the level that I was at before the injury.”

Villa has been used sparingly by new Barcelona manager Tito Vilanova, but the player has made an impact in nearly every match in which he has featured. Villa is obviously ready for an even greater challenge in the matches that await the squad: “I’m not used to being left out of the starting team, but I have to try to have a little patience.”

Image: Lluis Gene [AFP]