Larsson ready for Real derby

Barcelona striker Henrik Larsson says he feels fit and ready for the 'Gran Clasico'.

The two old foes face off at Camp Nou with Frank Rijkaard's breathtaking side currently 11 points clear of their rivals at the top of La Liga.

Larsson was substituted in the 0-0 UEFA Champions League quarter final draw with Benfica on Tuesday night, although the Swedish star says he will be raring to go if picked to face Real.

"There will be no problems to prepare," Larsson told Expressen.

"I am feeling fresh and physically strong, I wasn't tired at all when I was substituted."

Saturday night will be Larsson's last chance to face Los Merengues before he returns to his native Sweden in the summer, and the striker does not have fond memories of playing Real after tearing his knee ligaments in the derby in November 2004.

However he bounced back from the early setback to his Barca career to become a firm fans' favourite at Camp Nou, and started against Benfica as Rijkaard attempts to lead his side to just their second ever European Cup triumph.

It was a frustrating night for the Barca frontline as they failed to beat the impressive Marcelo Moretto, and Larsson hailed the performance of the Benfica shot stopper.

"The keeper must have made the match of his life," Larsson added. "We created lots of chances."