Barcelona have employed a sports shrink to work closely with Thomas Vermaelen.

The former Arsenal captain has failed to make his first team debut this season due to injury and suffered a minor setback just last week during recovery.

Sport says Barca now have a sports psychologist working with Vermaelen to build up his confidence, which has been hit hard by the constant setbacks.

The Belgian FA are also offering their support, with national team boss Marc Wilmots recently visiting La Masia to see Vermaelen.

The former Gunners captain has battled to overcome a long-standing hamstring complaint this past year.