Preview: Valencia vs. Barcelona

Barcelona will attempt to make it three wins from three La Liga games when they travel to the Mestalla to face Valencia on Sunday evening.

It has been a mixed start to the season for Valencia, picking up three points on the opening weekend of the season against Malaga, before losing to Espanyol last time out.

It has been a summer of change, meanwhile, with top scorer from last season Roberto Soldado seeking pastures new in the Premier League, but they do appear still to be searching for fresh blood in attack.

Barcelona, meanwhile, secured the Spanish Super Cup last week against Atletico Madrid courtesy of a 0-0 draw at the Camp Nou. As mentioned, they have also won both of their league fixtures, thumping Levante on the opening weekend before beating Malaga by the odd goal last time out.

The corresponding match last season ended in a 1-1 draw, but Barcelona were 1-0 winners on their own patch in September.

Helder Postiga should continue in attack for the home side, but Jonathan Viera and Sergio Canales are both pushing for inclusion from the start.

Barcelona are expected to recall Andres Iniesta to their starting side, with Neymar the most likely to drop out of the XI. Pedro could also come into the team in attack, but there is a slight doubt over the fitness of Dani Alves.

Recent form

Valencia: WL

Barcelona: WDWD

Possible lineups

Valencia: Alves; Pereira, Rami, Costa, Mathieu; Feghouli, Banega, Fuego, Michel; Jonas, Postiga

Barcelona: Valdes; Alves, Pique, Mascherano, Alba; Busquets, Iniesta, Fabregas; Pedro, Messi, Sanchez

Sports Mole says: 0-2