Finally Vermaelen gets medical all-clear to make Barcelona debut

Thomas Vermaelen has been cleared to make his long-awaited Barcelona debut after being given the green light by medical staff.

The former Arsenal captain has yet to play a competitive game for the club since his summer transfer, having battled a long-standing injury to his right hamstring.


The 29-year-old could now be set to play a part in the season run-in as Barca chase down a treble of Liga, Copa del Rey and Champions League glory.

"Five months after the injuring his right leg, FC Barcelona's Belgian defender Thomas Vermaelen has received medical clearance. He underwent surgery back in December and will now be fully available for Luis Enrique in the home stretch of the season," the club confirmed on their official website.

"He was given the medical all-clear following Sunday morning's workout at the Ciutat Esportiva."
Vermaelen could return to action as early as Tuesday when Barcelona host Getafe at Camp Nou.