Deco injury threatens Barca title hopes

COSTLY MISS: The Brazilian-born playmaker twisted his ankle in a training ground clash with French forward Ludovic Giuly.

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New Delhi: Spanish champions Barcelona's defence of their title was hit by an injury to Portuguese international Deco on Thursday which will sideline the midfielder for two weeks.

The Brazilian-born playmaker twisted his ankle in a training ground clash with French forward Ludovic Giuly and will miss Sunday's match away against Real Sociedad and the next at home against Real Betis on May 13.

He will also miss the second leg of the King's Cup semi-finals against Getafe next week.

"(Deco) has a very swollen ankle. According to the medics he has got a second degree sprained ankle. We are very sorry for that and we hope that he will recover as soon as possible." Barcelona left back Silvinho told a news conference.

Deco's absence will come as a blow to Barca boss Frank Rijkaard as the league leaders attempt to hold off Real Madrid, just two points behind, and Sevilla, one point down, with just six matches to go in the title race.