Edmilson eyes season opener

Barcelona midfielder Edmilson has set his target date for his return to first-team action.

The 30-year-old missed this summer's World Cup after damaging knee ligaments during Brazil's preparations for the tournament at the end of May.

Edmilson returned to full training last week and admits he hopes to be fully fit for the game against Barca's Catalan rivals at the end of August.

However, he is adamant he will not put his participation in the Liga opener against Osasuna on September 10 in doubt by playing against Espanyol when not 100 percent fit .

"I desire to be perfect (against Espanyol) but my objective is to be in perfect condition for the start of La Liga," Edmilson said.

The Spanish giants are set for a busy campaign next season with their participation in the Fifa Club World Cup later this year adding to challenges both domestically and in Europe.

Edmilson is now hoping to put his previous injury nightmares behind him and look forward to helping Barcelona in the coming campaign.

"That time was very hard and an unhappy time for me but now is all forgotten," he added.

"The Champions League is a great illusion for me after the experience last season and also the World Club Championships in Japan."