7 times in 1 year!

There is so much going on off the field at Can Barça that, once again, the biggest threat to FCB may come from complacency. Yes, we all know that Pep Guardiola is an expert at avoiding it, but nobody has really said too much about this game. On today's El Mundo Deportivo you have to turn to page 14 for the first mention of The Michel Men. Getafe are sitting reasonably comfortable in mid-table although may still be feeling a little sick after conceding a draw to Athletic last Monday evening in the 94th minute.

There is the prospect of a Real Madrid v FCB CL semi-final clash which, means there is the possibility of beating the Men in White 7 times in 2011. Difficult I know, but certainly possible and I am sure there are Merengues who are worried about it. First of all Barça have to go to the Ukraine and Harry stands in the way of Joe.

Of course the biggest shock was the discovery of Eric Abidal's tumor. He is in hospital recovering from an apparently successful operation. Everyone wishes this excellent player and genuine man all the best. Obviously a terrible blow for Eric who this season has been arguably FCB's best defender.

FCB are also without Puyol, Maxwell and Pedro for the visit of the men from Madrid. So probable starts for Boyan and Milito. All of a sudden it seems a great idea that Milito didn't move on in the last transfer window. I still can't wait for some of the B team defenders to come through as well, Fontás looks the most likely. Maybe the fantastic four (Fontás, Bartra, Muniesa and Montoya) could have been given more minutes so far this season? You know, the last 10-15 minutes in the 5-0s?

Getafe have a very important player missing in midfield in the shape of Boateng, that is excellent news for the legs of Happy Feet and the Conductor. Watch out for the sharp-shooting Many who manager to score 3 goals in that 2-2 draw last Monday.

Getafe's recent record in the Camp Nou is excellent with 2 draws and that hard-fought defeat last season where although Barça won 2-1 they did so having had two men sent off, Pique and Marquez.

Prediction:

FCB 3-1 Getafe