Barcelona sports chief Andoni Zubizarreta has delivered an upbeat report on Eric Abidal's recovery after having a liver tumor removed.

The 31-year-old is highly unlikely to return to playing until next season, but Zubizarreta is pleased to see his colleague is not suffering.

"He is fine, in good shape and in high spirits," Zubizarreta told Mundo Deportivo after visiting Abidal at the hospital.

"I passed on all the signs of affection that many clubs have sent him."



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