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Thomas Vermaelen relishing FIFA Club World Cup with Barcelona

Thomas Vermaelen is hoping for an injury-free campaign at Barcelona
Image: Thomas Vermaelen is hoping for an injury-free campaign at Barcelona

Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen is relishing the prospect of appearing in his first Club World Cup after finally shaking off his injury problems.

The 30-year-old former Arsenal defender damaged a hamstring at last year's World Cup finals in Brazil before signing for Barcelona, prompting some to question why the deal was completed.

He eventually needed surgery and did not make his official debut until the final weeks of last season and has since struggled to win a regular place in coach Luis Enrique's starting line-up.

However, as the European champions prepare to jet off to the Club World Cup in Japan, Vermaelen has revealed he is feeling good and looking forward to the experience of playing in the tournament, which features the six continental champions.

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"Of course, last year was a bit disappointing with the injury I had but I had a good pre-season," he told Reuters Television. "So I feel good at the moment and I have no problems."

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After a subdued start to the season, Barca have been on scintillating form in recent weeks fired by the goals of Neymar and Luis Suarez.

Talisman Lionel Messi returned from a two-month injury layoff in the La Liga 'Clasico' against Real Madrid on November 21 and Barca's reunited attacking trident look close to unstoppable.

After winning a Champions League, La Liga and Copa del Rey treble last term, Barca are four points clear at the top of Spain's domestic league and through to the last 16 of Europe's elite-club competition as group winners.

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Luis Suarez doubled Barcelona's lead over Real Sociedad with this skillful volley as their impressive form continued

They play the second leg of their King's Cup last 32 tie against third-tier Villanovense at the Nou Camp on Wednesday after October's first leg ended 0-0.

"I'm very honored to be part of this team of course," Vermaelen added. "We're playing well at the moment I think and to go to the Club World Cup for me will be something new.

"I know some of the players have the experience but for me it's something new, so something I look forward to and I'm very excited of course."   

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