Barcelona want resolution on Neymar availability before Real Madrid clash
Saturday 22 April 2017 22:23, UK
Barcelona want Spain's Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAD) to “issue a resolution” regarding Neymar’s availability for El Clasico against Real Madrid on Sunday.
The Brazilian was handed a ban following a sending-off against Malaga for two yellow cards, which draws a standard suspension of one game, but Neymar's subsequent sarcastic applause towards the officials prompted authorities to add two matches to the suspension.
Neymar has served the first match of his ban and has had an appeal rejected by the Spanish football federation, but Barca are still contesting that the additional two-game suspension is excessive and say they are waiting on an answer from TAD.
"The club requests the TAD issue a resolution," Barca said in a statement on Saturday.
"It is not true that FC Barcelona has asked for an opinion on whether the player is eligible or not. What the TAD was asked is that they assess the appeal and, subsequently, declare the player's availability. The club is still waiting for an answer from the TAD."
Spanish media has reported that he will travel with the Barcelona squad for the game in Madrid, live on Sky Sports 1, despite doubts over his eligibility for selection but Luis Enrique said he has prepared for his last El Clasico with or without Neymar.
"I think the club are correct in their position to defend the club's interests," said Enrique. "As a coach I am prepared to play with Neymar or without him."
Barcelona trail Real Madrid by three points at the top of La Liga having played a game more and Enrique says their hopes of a third straight title depend on winning at the Bernabeu.
"Given how close it is to the end of the season it is a decisive weekend," he added. "This time a Clasico can decide or almost decide the league or leave it very open.
"For us it is like a final, only a win will do.
"For some it means it is a very attractive challenge and for others it means pressure. I prefer to take it as an attractive and marvellous challenge. It's a chance to move level on points with Madrid."
