Barcelona defender Eric Abidal has revealed that he is hopeful of returning to action before the end of the year.

Abidal, 32, has been plagued by illness over the past few years, first undergoing treatment on a tumour before having a liver transplant in April last year.

However, the former France international, who lifted the Champions League for the Spanish giants in 2011, has started training in the gym again and believes that he can be back playing by December.

"I have started working in the gym and I feel fine. I will keep progressing and see if I can play before December," said Abidal.

"I'm better than three months ago. I am following the guidelines that the doctors have given me and the truth is I feel fine.

"I travel and enjoy being around the team and that environment."

Abidal joined Barcelona in 2007 and has since made 188 appearances for the club.