Lieke Martens ruled out of Champions League semi-finals
By Ali Rampling
Lieke Martens has been ruled out for four weeks after suffering a hamstring injury, meaning she will miss both legs of Barcelona's Champions League semi-final against Wolfsburg.
The Netherlands international - regarded as one of the finest players in the world - has been sidelined since March with a thigh problem, resulting in her sitting out Barça's historic victory over Real Madrid in front of a world-record attendance at Camp Nou.
Barcelona continue the defence of their Champions League title on Friday evening, as they host Wolfsburg at the iconic stadium. Another bumper crowd is expected.
However, they will be without Martens for the fixture, after the club confirmed via their official Twitter account that she has suffered a hamstring injury to her right thigh during her recovery from her previous injury.
The club estimates that she will be out for four weeks, which would see her return to action in the middle of May.
Barcelona's second leg of their Champions League semi-final takes place on Saturday 30 April, which Martens will again likely sit out.
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If her recovery goes according to schedule, the 29-year-old could be in line to return for Barcelona's final league game of the season against Atletico Madrid on 15 May. Barcelona have already been crowned Primera Division champions for a third successive season.
The Champions League final takes place the following week on 21 May. Should they emerge victorious against Wolfsburg, Barcelona will face either Lyon or PSG.