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In-form Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain, who scored the winner against city rivals Atletico last weekend, is poised to replace suspended frontman Ruud van Nistelrooy up front at home to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.

The Argentine is expected to recover from an ankle injury picked up in the 2-1 Champions League defeat away to Juventus on Tuesday.

Atletico Madrid have problems in defence for the trip to face Villarreal on Sunday, with Colombia's Luis Perea suspended, Czech Republic's Tomas Ujfalusi injured and the Netherlands' John Heitinga a doubt.

Argentina midfielder Maxi Rodriguez returned to training with the squad after injury on Thursday and should reappear.

Villarreal's Spain midfielder Santi Cazorla is expected to play despite carrying a muscle problem.

Sevilla's Argentine forward Lautaro Acosta has joined the ranks of injured strikers at the club after their 2-0 UEFA Cup victory over VfB Stuttgart on Thursday.

Acosta has a twisted ankle and is a doubt for the visit of Malaga on Sunday. Frederic Kanoute, Arouna Kone, Luis Fabiano and Ernesto Chevanton are all struggling with injuries.

Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o is likely to return to lead the line when Almeria visit on Saturday. The Cameroon international was rested for the 5-0 demolition of Basel in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Real Betis's Brazilian forward Edu is set to return to the starting line up for the first time this season when Paco Chaparro's outfit, who face Osasuna away on Saturday, look to build on their first win last time out.

Follow live text commentary of Barcelona v Almeria (Saturday 21:00 UK time), Villarreal v Atletico Madrid (Sunday 18:00) and Real Madrid v Athletic Bilbao (Sunday 20:00), plus scores and scorers from every Liga game!

Reuters