Barcelona defender Eric Abidal hopes to make a playing return in 2013.

The defender has fully recovered from his liver transplant and is now training with the Barca first team squad.

Abidal said: "I have leapt over many obstacles, but there are many still to go. I have cleared them all up to now, and if there are any more then I'll jump them as well as I can … I feel well.

"It is eight months since my operation. I have fought hard and continue to do so every day. It's difficult but I'm always in a good mood and keen to return to playing."