The Barcelona lineup that should start against Granada
By Max Parsons
Ronald Koeman's Barcelona host Granada on Thursday evening as La Blaugrana aim to take pole position in the La Liga title race.
Barça's exceptional league from was halted earlier this month, when Real Madrid ended a 19 match unbeaten run which has helped them mount a title charge. Since that 2-1 loss to Los Blancos, Koeman's men have reacted well, beating Athletic Club 4-0 in the Copa del Rey final and overcoming Getafe and Villarreal in La Liga - 5-2 and 2-1 respectively. A win on Thursday would see Barcelona take top spot by one point, with all four title contenders having played 33 times.
They face a Granada side who after a promising start to the campaign have let inconsistency hinder a European qualification place push. They're eighth in La Liga, seven points off Villareal in seventh, and have lost six of their last ten in all competitions - including both legs of their Europa League quarter final tie against Manchester United.
To claim what would be a vital win in the race for the La Liga crown, here's the Barcelona lineup that should start.
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Marc-Andre ter Stegen (GK) - Barcelona's undisputed number one has been excellent all season and will certainly play a big part in their run in.
Oscar Mingueza (CB) - Has entered the frame remarkably well and has looked composed, solid and effective throughout the campaign.
Gerard Pique (CB) - Been hindered by an injury-struck season but injects great experience and calmness at the centre of the back three and should definitely start.
Clement Lengelt (CB) - Has been partial to the odd mistake this season but he possesses brilliant passing ability that allows La Blaugrana to build from the back like we love seeing.
2. Wing backs & midfielders
Sergi Roberto (RWB) - Has had a torrid time with injury but can be fantastic on his day. Came on for Sergino Dest at half time against Villarreal so may be favoured on Thursday.
Frenkie de Jong (CM) - One of the side's most influential players with his play on and off the ball. They don't look the same without him in midfield.
Sergio Busquets (CM) - The veteran always plays his part expertly and will provide a solid screen to his back three should Granada decide to embark on the odd counter attack.
Pedri (CM) - Simply a revelation this season. Hasn't been quite as impactful as he can be in recent weeks but will always give his all and pops up all over the pitch.
Jordi Alba (LWB) - An absolute menace going forward and will hope to build on his ten goal contributions so far in the league.
3. Forwards
Lionel Messi (ST) - The genius has 25 goals and 11 assists in 30 La Liga games this campaign and, although he didn't register one of either last time out, he's always likely to hurt his opposition.
Antoine Griezmann (ST) - Becoming more and more vital to Koeman's side with tenacious and creative showings. He has five strikes in his last six La Liga outings, including the crucial brace that gave Barça a 2-1 victory last time out.