FC Barcelona's coach Frank Rijkaard is excited about the return of his captain Carles Puyol.


Puyol was injured in June against Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa and has been out of action since then. Now the solid defender has started training again, as a first step toward returning to full fitness and stepping up the La Liga and champions League games involving the Blaugrana. On Puyol's return, Rijkaard was full of praises:

Puyol cannot stay still and always wants to help the team. Because of that it was hard for him at the start. now I see the excitement in him as he is close to playing again.

Rijkaard also commented on the spectacular recent showings by Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho, as well as showings by Eric Abidal and the rest of the team:

Ronaldinho has been impressive. He has worked hard and trained very well. He is still a very important player for us. Abidal is a great player. He has speed and strength. He is technically very good and is a strong defender. Everyone has done well in pre-season. Also, in the first half against Athletic the team played very well.