Barcelona star forward, who picked up an ankle injury in champions league, ruled out against Espanyol in La Liga
Barcelona star forward, who picked up an ankle injury in champions league, ruled out against Espanyol in La Liga
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Barcelona forward Lionel Messi has been ruled out of Saturday's derby against Espanyol due to an ankle injury.
The 22-year-old Ballon d'Or winner sustained the problem late in Wednesday night's 2-1 Champions League win at Dynamo Kiev courtesy of a fierce tackle from Leandro Almeidau00a0-- shortly after netting the decisive goal from a stunning free-kick.
A statement on club website: "Messi has been evaluated and it has been confirmed this afternoon that he has a grade II sprain to his right ankle.
"He is out for Saturday's game."
The injury will be assessed before a decision is made on his availability for the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final next Wednesday.
Pep Guardiola's side advanced to the last 16 of the Champions League thanks to their win last night and head into this weekend's clash with Espanyol at the Nou Camp five points clear of arch rivals Real Madrid at the Primera Division summit.
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