Abel's road to recovery

Last updated : 23 October 2002 By Footymad
The Portuguese defender has been out of action for five weeks with what was first feared to be Guillan-Barre Syndrome - the illness that incapacitated Markus Babbel last season.

But Xavier's virus was less serious and he is now ready to resume light training as he bids to regain his place in the first team squad.