Thierry Henry will miss Barcelona's Catalan derby against Espanyol on Saturday due to a back problem, the Primera Liga runners-up said on their website. The French striker, who missed Barcelona's 2-2 Champions League draw with Lyon, won't be able to recover in time for the important fixture. Barca boss Frank Rijkaard will be left short of attacking options due to the absence of Samuel Eto'o and Deco, who are yet to fully recover from injuries. Youngster Bojan Kirkic, who put on impressive displays lately, is likely to start upfront with the support of Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho. Eto'o Close to Return
Samuel Eto'o Cameroon prolific striker Eto'o is close to making his first competitive action since sustaining a knee injury in a friendly game against Inter Milan on August 29th. "I feel good. I have worked hard and it seems like I am on the final straight now," Eto'o told Barcelona's website. The 26-year-old believes a non-rushing return will benefit him greatly. "I suffered the second big injury in the same leg and I think that it was going to be a mistake then." "We have taken all the time needed for the benefit of everyone; Barca, myself and my family. And I am pleased by the recovery has gone," he added.
