Gerardo Martino explains absence of trio

Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino has revealed his reasons for not including Marc Bartra, Xavi or Daniel Alves in his 18-man squad for the Copa del Rey clash with Getafe on Wednesday evening.

According to Martino, who spoke at a press conference on Tuesday, centre-back Bartra has been omitted as a precaution, while Xavi is believed to be suffering with a slight muscular injury.

Brazilian right-back Alves will also be unavailable for the first leg at Camp Nou due to illness.

"Bartra had some discomfort. We've examined him and found nothing, but we don't want to take any risks. My instinct tells me to be careful. The problem Xavi has, just needs patience and Alves has had flu and isn't well," Martino told reporters.

Barcelona currently sit top of La Liga after 18 matches.