Barcelona team news: Injury, suspension list vs. Espanyol

Xavi's side were last in action on November 8, recording a 2-1 win over Osasuna, which left them top of the table, two points clear of second-placed Real Madrid.

An excellent start to their domestic season has seen them win 12, draw one and lose one of their 14 matches to collect 37 points, scoring 33 goals and conceding just five times in the process.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up the team's latest injury and suspension news ahead of their clash with Espanyol, who currently sit 16th in Spain's top flight.

Ronald Araujo

Status: Major doubt

Type of injury: Thigh

Possible return date: December 31 (vs. Espanyol)

Ronald Araujo underwent an operation on a thigh problem towards the end of September but was still named in the Uruguay squad for the World Cup. The centre-back did not feature in Qatar, but he has stepped up his injury recovery, and there is a chance that Araujo could be in the squad here.

Sergi Roberto

Status: Major doubt

Type of injury: Shoulder

Possible return date: December 31 (vs. Espanyol)

Sergi Roberto dislocated his shoulder in the league clash with Athletic Bilbao towards the end of October, and he remains a major doubt for the contest with Espanyol.

Franck Kessie

Status: Major doubt

Type of injury: Hamstring

Possible return date: December 31 (vs. Espanyol)

Franck Kessie suffered a hamstring injury during the Champions League clash with Viktoria Plzen at the start of November, but he could potentially be back in the squad for this match.

BARCELONA'S SUSPENSION LIST

Robert Lewandowski

Status: Out

Possible return date: January 4 (vs. Intercity)

Barcelona will be without the services of Robert Lewandowski for their next three league matches through suspension, but the striker will be able to face Intercity in the Copa del Rey on January 4.