RIVALDO INJURY WORRY FOR BARCA

RIVALDO has emerged as a serious injury worry for Barcelona, with the superstar complaining of a knee strain upon his return from international duty with Brazil.

The inspirational forward picked up a knock during Brazil`s 2-1 World Cup qualification defeat by Argentina, and returned to Barcelona with worrying news for coach Carles Rexach.

"I'll have to talk to Rexach this evening and let the club doctors have a look at my knee, but right now it's very painful," the Brazilian revealed on Barcelona`s official website.

Although not confirmed, it is almost certain that Rivaldo will miss Sunday`s home game against Rayo Vallecano, with initial reports suggesting that a suspected tendon injury could keep him on the sidelines for at least three weeks.

Barca start their Champions League campaign with a home clash against French side Lyon on Wednesday, and it would seem that Rexach will have to do without his most influential player.