Luis Enrique pleased for Thomas Vermaelen

Barcelona boss Luis Enrique has said that it is "very good news" to have Thomas Vermaelen available for the final stretch of the season.

The Belgian international joined the Spanish side from Arsenal last summer, but has not yet made his debut following a long-term hamstring problem.

The centre-back has now been declared fit and available, however, and could play some part against Getafe in La Liga on Tuesday evening.

"It's very good news for him and for the team. Now he needs to get into the right rhythm. Of course he'll help us, let's see whether that is on or off the pitch," Enrique told reporters at a press conference.

The 29-year-old has recently been linked with a move to Everton, with reports claiming that Barcelona were prepared to cut their losses this summer.