TEAM NEWS: David Villa starts for Barcelona versus Getafe

Feb 10, 2013 11:14:00 AM

Spain's record goalscorer returns to the starting XI as Luis Garcia Plaza's outfit make the trip to Camp Nou

Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has handed a start to David Villa for the Catalan side’s Primera Division clash with Getafe on Sunday.

The former Valencia striker has been on the fringes of the first team recently, but makes up the attacking forward trio alongside Lionel Messi and Alexis Sanchez, who makes a rare appearance from the off.

With the Champions League on the horizon for the Blaugrana, several first-team players have been rested. Sergio Busquets, Cesc Fabregas, Pedro, and Dani Alves all settle for a place on the bench.

With Xavi injured, Alex Song and Thiago Alcantara partner Andres Iniesta in midfield. Club captain Carles Puyol returns to the first XI and partners Gerard Pique at the back.

Getafe have been boosted by the returns of Miguel Torres and Alberto Lopo, who make the starting XI after serving bans. Pedro Leon has recovered from his knee injury, but can only make the bench.

Diego Castro, Jaime Gavilan, and Abdel Barrada support Adrian Colunga up top.

Barcelona (4-3-3): Valdes; Adriano, Pique, Puyol, Alba; Thiago, Song, Iniesta; Alexis, Messi, Villa

Subs: Pinto, Alves, Mascherano, Busquets, Cesc, Pedro, Tello

Getafe (4-2-3-1): Codina; Miguel Torres, Alexis, Lopo, Escudero; Lacen, Borja; Barrada, Castro, Gavilan; Colunga