Jose Pinto confirms David Villa fitness

Barcelona goalkeeper Jose Pinto has insisted that Spanish striker David Villa is ready to return to the fold next season.

Villa, 30, has not played for Barca since breaking his leg in December 2011, but he has since returned to pre-season training with the club.

Pinto posted a picture on his Twitter account which confirmed that the striker's ferocious left foot is on the mend.

"I can confirm that @Guaje7Villa is like a cannon! Here is proof of the mark which he signed that he left with his powerful shot!" Pinto tweeted.

Villa scored nine goals for Barcelona last season.