Barca's Ronaldinho laid low by stomach complaint

Barcelona forward Ronaldinho has missed training for the second day in succession in the run-up to the weekend clash against Real Madrid because of a stomach complaint.

The club said that the World Player of the Year was suffering from acute gastroenteritis. It said medical staff would visit him at home to check on his condition, but there was no indication he would not be able to play on Sunday.

Barca added that centre-back Carles Puyol, who is doubtful because of an ankle strain, would continue to receive specialist treatment on the injury as he attempts to recover in time for the match against arch-rivals Real.

Barca enjoy a nine-point lead over Real with eight games left to play. A victory at the Bernabeu will set the Catalans up for their first league title in six years.