Thomas Vermaelen Returns To Barcelona Training After Four Months

Belgium, defender Thomas Vermaelen has returned to training with his Barcelona's team-mates for the first time since he underwent surgery in December.

The former Arsenal player, who left the Emirate stadium for £15m in August, got injured while in action for his country at the 2014 FIFA world cup in Brazil, and is yet to make a debut for his Spanish club.

However, vermaelen, who began his career at Ajax has targeted a return to competitive action next month.

"The main novelty at the training session was Thomas Vermaelen," Barca said on their website on Wednesday.

"The Belgian defender was able to complete part of training with the rest of the group," added the Catalan giants, who are four points clear of second-placed Real Madrid after Sunday's 2-1 victoryand next face Celta Vigo on 4 April. BBC