体坛英语新闻：Mathieu injury setback for Barca

MADRID, Nov. 2 (Xinhua) -- FC Barcelona will be without the services of French defender, Jeremy Mathieu for around three weeks the club confirmed on Sunday.

Mathieu injured his right calf muscle during Saturday night's shock 1-0 home defeat to Celta Vigo in the Camp Nou Stadium, although he played all 90 minutes of the match alongside Javier Mascherano in the heart of the Barca defense.

The injury means he will miss the midweek trip to play Ajax of Amsterdam in the Champions League, as well as next weekend's BBVA Primera Liga game away to Almeria, while his presence is also in doubt for the home match against Sevilla after the forthcoming international break.

The loss of Mathieu means Barca coach, Luis Enrique will have to once again turn to Gerard Pique, who watched Saturday's defeat from the stands, or Marc Bartra, who has once again had only limited opportunities, while the club awaits for recent signing Thomas Vermaelen to finally reach match-fitness and make his debut.