Barcelona defender Eric Abidal has progressed in a bid to return from his liver transplant in April.
The France international underwent surgery 18 months ago on a tumour in his liver, and then had to undergo a transplant this year after complications from the previous operation.
But Europa Press have confirmed that the 33-year-old has upped his fitness programme in hope that he will return to first-team action soon.
Alongside Blaugrana physio Emili Ricart, the former Lyon man has been completing an extensive regime in the Val d'Aran region of Catalonia, comprising of mountain hikes and ball work.
Doctors have confirmed that Abidal can play football again, and the veteran defender has himself revealed he would like to make a return for Tito Vilanova's side next year.
