Johnny Cardoso return gives Atletico Madrid midfield boost before Barcelona test

Atletico Madrid have been handed a significant boost before Sunday’s La Liga meeting with Barcelona, with Johnny Cardoso back in full training.

The United States midfielder completed the session with his team-mates at Atletico’s Majadahonda training complex and is now available for selection for the fixture at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

Cardoso had been recovering from a minor thigh injury and his return gives manager Diego Simeone another option in central midfield. It is not yet clear whether the will be fit enough to start against Barcelona.

The midfielder had quickly become a regular in Atletico’s starting line-up this season, earning selection ahead of Koke and Hjulmand in Simeone’s plans.

His absence had reduced Atletico’s choices in the middle of the pitch. Koke had also previously been dealing with injury, while Hjulmand missed the Champions League match against Bayern because of suspension.

Cardoso’s return means Simeone now has all four of his central-midfield options available for a crucial fixture in the title race, with top spot in La Liga at stake.

Atletico held their training session in two groups. The players who started against Bayern completed separate work from those who came on in the second half or did not feature.

Cuti Romero is the only Atletico player still unavailable because of injury. He is expected to return after the international break.