Vermaelen has Valverde's backing to fill in for suspended Pique
The Barça coach says the Belgian defender's ready when needed
Vermaelen has just returned from playing two games for his country
Ernesto Valverde doesn't have any doubts. Despite Thomas Vermaelen only playing once for Barcelona this season -- in the Copa del Rey against Murcia -- the Belgian is in condition to play if the team needs him.
Gerard Pique's suspension this weekend and an injury to Javier Mascherano mean Vermaelen could start on Sunday at Valencia. For that reason, it would not be unreasonable for him to be given minutes against Juventus on Wednesday.
Asked about the centre-back situation, Valverde said: "I try not to worry about things before I need to. Yes, Pique is suspended for Valencia but tomorrow we have three centre-backs and tomorrow's game is the most important.
"I think we are well-covered. Vermaelejustiust come back from playing two games with Belgium and I think he's ready to play."
In any case, Valverde is likely to start Wednesday's game in Turin -- Barça need a point to top the group -- with Samuel Umtiti and Pique.
