Mascherano picks up a hamstring injury

Javier Mascherano, a permanent fixture in Gerardo Martino’s starting line-ups, was subbed off for Marc Bartra on the 34th minute of the first half in the match against Real Sociedad. Barça’s No14 picked up a knock at the start of the match which eventually forced the player off the pitch. Initial tests indicate that Mascherano has a hamstring injury in his right leg. The player will undergo additional tests on Wednesday to determine the extent of his injury.

Mascherano joins Puyol, who is recovering from knee surgery, and Jordi Alba, who is recovering from a hamstring injury, on the injury list. The left back was injured in the match against Sevilla and his estimated recovery time is approximately three weeks.