Xavi blow for Barca

Barcelona star Xavi faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a serious knee injury.

Xavi tore the cruciate ligament in his right knee in training on Friday.

Scans have shown the full extent of the injury and the classy midfielder will be forced to undergo surgery.

The 25-year-old is expected to be sidelined for up to six months with the problem.

The news is a massive blow for Barca as they look to achieve success in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League this season.

It also raises a question mark over his participation at next summer's World Cup finals with Spain.