TEAM NEWS: Pique makes first start in eight weeks as Barcelona face Mallorca

Nov 11, 2012 4:10:00 PM

The Spain international is named in the Blaugrana's lineup for the game against the Rojiblancos now that he is fully recovered from the injury he picked up in September

Tito Vilanova makes five changes to the side that lost to Celtic during the week for Barcelona's trip to Mallorca, with Gerard Pique named in the starting line-up after a long period out through injury.

The 25-year-old Spain international, who was crocked in the Champions League clash with Spartak Moscow back in September, replaces Marc Bartra in the centre of the Blaugrana defence.

Elsewhere, David Villa and Cristian Tello are chosen to play with Lionel Messi in a front three for the Catalan giants. Villa and Tello replace Pedro and Alexis Sanchez, while Sergio Busquets also return to Barcelona's starting XI as Alex Song is dropped to the bench.

Cesc Fabregas is included in a midfield three alongside Xavi and Busquets, as Andres Iniesta is named as a substitute.

Joaquin Caparros makes one change from his side that lost 1-0 away to Deportivo on November 4, as Javier Arizmendi makes way for the right-back Ximo, allowing Nsue to push forward and play on the right side of midfield for the home team.

Mallorca line up in a 4-4-2 formation, which is a change from their usual 4-2-3-1. Victor partners Tomer Hemed upfront.

Mallorca (4-4-2): Aouate; Ximo, Geromel, Conceicao, Bigas; Nsue, Pina, Marti, Pereira; Victor, Hemed.

Subs: Sanchez, Kevin, Fontas, Alfaro, Arizmendi, Fernandez, Brandon.

Barcelona (4-3-3): Valdes; Alves, Pique, Mascherano, Alba; Xavi, Busquets, Fabregas; Tello, Villa, Messi.

Subs: Pinto, Montoya, Bartra, Song, Iniesta, Alexis, Pedro.

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!