Barcelona's Dani Alves out of action for three weeks

Barcelona full-back Dani Alves will be absent for Brazil's international friendlies after picking up a thigh injury.

The 29-year-old suffered the blow during the Catalans' 2-2 draw with Real Madrid at the Nou Camp last night.

A statement on the club's official website said: "Dani Alves will be out for three weeks. The Brazilian has suffered a grade one muscular injury in his left thigh during the Barca-Madrid game on Sunday."

Alves will be sidelined for his nation's games against Iraq and Japan.