Comeback: Thomas Vermaelen trains for second day in a row

Thomas Vermaelen, Barcelona's Belgian defender, has seen the light at the end of the tunnel. In training on Thursday, he took part for the second consecutive day, working with the group.

Admittedly it was a depleted group, given the absence of the internationals, but enough for Vermaelen to play with the ball and feel a sensation he hasn't felt in a long time.

Vermaelen worked with Dani Alves and the youth team goalkeeper Ortola, called up to increase the numbers. 

The defender returns after four months, taking an operation in December. He has only played one game for Barcelona, a friendly against Indonesia's U19 squad. 

Vermaelen is finally a footballer again, but it may still be a while before he can be incorporated into the matchday squad like a normal player - at least Luis Enrique has him at his disposal. Barcelona will not train again until Monday.