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Luis Enrique backs Sandro and Munir despite goal drought

Xinhua, October 30, 2015 Adjust font size:

FC Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will be without suspended midfielder Javier Mascherano when his side make a potentially difficult trip to face Getafe on Saturday evening.

Mascherano is suspended for two games after being sent off for swearing at the end of Barca' s 3-1 win at home to Eibar on Sunday and his absence will only add to the selection headache faced by coach Luis Enrique.

Leo Messi is still out with his knee injury, while Rafinha will miss the rest of the campaign with a torn cruciate ligament.

Thursday saw the news that Brazilian defender Douglas, who played in the 0-0 Kings Cup draw away to third tier side Villanovense suffered a cracked bone in that match and will not play until the New Year.

The Villanovense game, result apart was a big disappointment for Barca, who rested players such as Luis Suarez and Neymar, but saw how the young players who were given a chance to prove they are worth a place in the team failed to take it.

There must be worries that Sandro Ramirez and Munir, the two players who have covered for Messi, have failed to score in 1000 minutes football between them, although coach Luis Enrique continues to praise their efforts in public.

"I' d like Sandro and Munir to score, but I am happy with their work. They are taking part in our goals and I am pleased with them, although they can improve," said Luis Enrique in his pre-game press conference in which he confirmed Sergi Roberto and Andres Iniesta would be fit to play in Getafe.

Luis Enrique also discussed the injuries which have plagued his side this season. "It' s a question of luck and you can' t do anything about that," he said.

"We are not in worse shape physically than last season, but I know that some players are playing more than I would prefer. I hope that it not a problem later in the campaign" , he commented.

Getafe receive Barca following a 5-0 defeat to Sevilla, but Barca have to beware as their rivals won their last home game 4-0 against Las Palmas. Endi