The unjury crisis at Barcelona means that coach Pep Guardiola may be forced to play Rafa Marquez in the midfield.

For Saturday's match against Racing Santander, Xavi, Keita and Toure are all missing through injury and so looking for a defensive midfielder, Guardiola has looked at the Mexican as a possibility.

Marquez missed the defeat against Atletico Madrid through suspension and now could play alongside Busquets and Iniesta in a position he has played in before under previous coach Frank Rijkaard.

It is important that Barca get a good result against Racing so as to prevent a feeling of uncertainty to creep into the camp following their lead at the top having been cut to just two points. Barca were shaky at the back against Atletico with their make-shift backline while also in attack at the moment they are not convincing.

 Ibrahimovic has gone through a disappointing run without scoring and it appears as though Thierry Henry no longer features in Guardiola's plans. The Frenchman's form has been nowhere near the level of last season and this has coincided with the emergence of Pedro who appears to have a special eye for a goal.

Like last season everything appears to be heading towards the el clasico at the Bernabeu which could decide where the title is going this season. Barca of course famously destroyed Madrid last season 6-2 which inspired them towards their unique six trophies.