Team News: Gerard Pique, Dani Alves absent for Barcelona

Gerard Pique and Dani Alves have not been included in the Barcelona starting lineup for this evening's home encounter against Getafe.

As a result, Javier Mascherano will drop back into a defensive role, while Adriano will play on the left side of a three-man rearguard.

Lionel Messi is included in the side, as are Andres Iniesta and Xavi.

A victory for Barca will see them cut the gap on leaders Real Madrid to one point.

Barcelona: Valdes; Mascherano, Puyol, Adriano; Xavi, Iniesta, Busquets, Alexis, Cuenca, Pedro; Messi

Getafe: Moya; Masilela, Cata Díaz, Alexis, Miguel Torres; Rios, Ruben Perez, Casquero, Juan Rodríguez, Diego Castro; Miku