Barcelona on Saturday rested Argentine midfielder Javier Mascherano for their league clash with Sevilla but were boosted by the return of defender Jeremy Mathieu.

Mascherano has become a key player for coach Luis Enrique. But with the Spanish side second in the table two points behind Real Madrid, he was left out as Barcelona have four more tough La Liga games and two key Champions League clashes before the end of the year.

Mathieu, a surprise signing before the season started, returns to the squad after three weeks out with a calf injury. The 31-year-old French international was given the all-clear to play on Friday.

Brazilian midfielder Rafinha is also fit again for the match against fifth placed Sevilla which starts at 1900 GMT.