The entire team for Davis Cup is finally together in Barcelona to begin their training at the Palau Sant Jordi in Barcelona, which will host, from 4 to 6 December, the Davis Cup final against the Czech Republic.

David and Feli, along with coach Albert Costa, who have been training for a few days already, were joined by Fernando and Rafa on Saturday.

Prior to arriving in Barcelona, Fernando’s fitness was assessed at the Clínica CEMTRO in Madrid. Team doctor Angel Ruiz Cotorro explained “We have assessed Fernando and provided the proper treatments. It appears that his injury is not too serious. He has had an iliopsoas contracture of the thigh of the left leg and we have been monitoring it to see how it evolves. He is in the recovery phase. It is logical for these problems to come from a tournament like the Masters Cup, with three very tough matches.”

Team captain Albert Costa admits that the team “needs a few days to be perfect,” but is optistmic: “I have many things ready in my head. I have my decisions made and I am convinced that all the players will be ready to play the final.”

According to Davis Cup rules, the team captain can change change two players up to an hour before the draw, which is due to take place on Thursday. This means that the first team alternate, Juan Carlos Ferrero could have a place in the final, or that David Ferrer may be calld up to play Friday’s singles instead of Fernando, whose energy may be reserved for the doubles with Feliciano.

(via AS)