Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes is expected to return to first-team action against Elche in La Liga this weekend.

The Spanish international has not played for the Spanish champions since the middle of November after tearing his calf while on international duty.

Jose Pinto has deputised for the injured stopper, but has conceded eight times in the eight matches that he has been named between the sticks.

According to reports in Spain, Valdes has now been given medical clearance and will therefore be available for Barcelona's first match after the winter break.

Valdes is expected to be Spain's first-choice goalkeeper at the World Cup next summer.