Javier Mascherano
Javier Mascherano scored his first ever goal for Barcelona in the 7-1 win over Osasuna at Camp Nou Reuters

Barcelona will look to maintain their hold on the top spot in La Liga with victory over city rivals Espanyol at the Cornella-El Prat on 29 April.

Where to watch

Kick-off is set for 7.45pm BST. The game is not scheduled for live broadcast in the UK.

Overview

Gerard's goal salvaged a point for Espanyol as they held Sporting Gijon to a 1-1 draw at El Molinon on 25 April. The Catalan club have lost their last four meetings with Barcelona in all competitions.

Left-back Aaron Martin is racing to recover from a leg injury and is doubtful for the visit of Barcelona. Winger Hernan Perez (ankle) could also feature.

Barcelona followed up their El Clasico success with a 7-1 demolition of Osasuna in midweek. Luis Enrique's side are level on points with Real Madrid but are ahead of their arch-rivals due to their superior head-to-head record.

Captain Andres Iniesta missed training during the week due to muscle discomfort and is a doubt. Brazilian forward Neymar is available after serving a three-match ban.

What managers say

Quique Flores: "The boys have great enthusiasm to play the derby and the four games that remain and fight for the points that remain. We have many reasons to be happy from Saturday to Saturday, I'm looking forward to it. It will be a different game. We are a team that grows, the players are competing well, but everything will come in time. Next year we will be absolutely improved in everything." [via Marca]

Luis Enrique: "I'm very happy and even more so with the performances of the players that have played less this season. We only made one small mistake in the Osasuna goal. Luckily, it was resolved quickly. In any case, I don't have anything special to say about the game or anything." [via Football Espana]

Form guide

  • Espanyol: DLWWL
  • Last result: Sporting Gijon 1-1 Espanyol
  • Barcelona (all competitions): WWDWL
  • Last result: Barcelona 7-1 Osasuna

Betting odds (Betfair)

  • Espanyol win: 16/1
  • Draw: 13/2
  • Barcelona win: 1/5

Team news

Espanyol possible XI: Diego Lopez; J Lopez, David Lopez, Reyes, Martin; Jurado, Sanchez, Fuego, Piatti; Caicedo, Gerard

Barcelona possible XI: Ter Stegen; Roberto, Pique, Umtiti, Alba; Rakitic, Busquets, Gomes; Messi, L Suarez, Neymar

Barcelona