Barcelona aim to keep title hopes going against Valladolid

MADRID: FC Barcelona look to continue their improved form and keep in the race for the La Liga title when they entertain Valladolid on Sunday night.

Barca will be confident of all three points after their 6-1 win away to Real Sociedad two weeks ago, which was arguably their best performance of the season, while Valladolid's record in the Cap Nou should also give Ronald Koeman's men room for optimism. Sunday's visitors have only won twice and taken just six draws from 44 visits to the Camp Nou, with the last of their wins back in 1997.

However, the side coached by Sergio Gonzalez has been tough to beat in recent weeks and has climbed out of the relegation zone with four draws and a win in their last six games.

Right-back Sergi Roberto should be back for Barca after suffering a relapse of the muscle problem which originally affected him in November, but Gerard Pique is still a few days away from full fitness after his latest setback.

Pique has been working hard over the past fortnight and aims to be fit for the 'Clasico' away to Real Madrid next weekend and the final of the 2020 Copa del Rey on April 17th.

Koeman looks likely to continue with his tactic of three central defenders and two wing-backs, which has worked so well in recent games and allows Frenkie de Jong the opportunity to step forward into midfield when needed.

Antoine Griezmann and Ousmane Dembele have both been in good form for France and will partner Leo Messi in attack, while 18-year-old Pedri continued his progress with some impressive displays as he played his first games for Spain.

Barca kick off the weekend with two points more than Real Madrid and four points behind league leaders Atletico, but if Real Madrid and Atletico win their respective matches, Barca will kick-off seven points off the top of the table with no room for errors a week ahead of their visit to play Real Madrid. Agencies

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