David Villa's rehabilitation from an operation to repair his broken leg remains on course and the Barcelona striker is feeling increasingly optimistic about his return to fitness.

The Spain international was in December ruled out for at least five months after suffering his injury at the Club World Cup.

Such a timescale leaves Villa in a race against time to prove his fitness for this summer's European Championship, but he is hoping for the best.

"Each day I am more optimistic about my injury," he is quoted as saying. "The phases of recuperation are correct and I am in a good way for returning.

"Day to day I notice that I improve and my dream has not changed. I want to be in condition for the end of season."