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Thomas Vermaelen hopes to make Barcelona debut in April

Gustau Nacarino / REUTERS

Frustrated by false reports, Thomas Vermaelen provided some positive news for Barcelona fans Tuesday by clearing the air on his recovery efforts from a torn hamstring.

Vermaelen suffered the injury at the World Cup in Brazil, but an inaccurate diagnosis where doctors told him he'd only miss 10 days delayed his recovery, and he eventually required surgery on the ligament in November.

With his rehab program on the verge of completion, the central defender hopes to make his first appearance for the club in April following nine months on the sidelines.

"I've taken a big step forward," he said in a video posted on his Facebook page. "I'm happy to be back running. It's great to be back training outdoors instead of in the gym. I want to return stronger than before.

"I want to thank the club and the medical staff for the work they have done. In two weeks I will return stronger."

Vermaelen, who made the move from Arsenal for £15 million, explained that he originally opted to avoid surgery until limited progress forced him to go under the knife.

He says his surgeon outlined a program to ensure his recovery, and now it appears to be just a matter of time before Vermaelen makes his long-awaited debut at the Camp Nou.

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