Neymar Jr., Barcelona's forward and one of its three musketeers (with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez), was expected to miss the opening campaign of Barca because of his back injury, but now, it seems as if he is ready for action after passing the medical tests. He could even be ready to square off against Elche.

The Selecao talisman was injured in the World Cup's quarter final game between Brazil and Colombia when Juan Camilo Zuniga allegedly kneeled him on his back, thus, fracturing his vertebra.

The doctors recommended the 22- year- old to rest for six weeks prior to the injury, and an appearance in the opening match for Barcelona against Elche was a doubt, for it was scheduled in August 23.

However, the FC Barcelona released a statement that Neymar, and three other players, have completed their medical exam, and will now be training intensely for pre- season drills.

A statement from the Catalan giants read: "The four World Cup semi-finalists, Leo Messi, Javier Mascherano, Dani Alves and Neymar, who trained with their colleagues on Tuesday, returned to the club for their medical tests.

"They all passed with flying colours and are now set for three weeks of intense training in the build-up to the start of official matches in three weeks' time."

Adriano, a midfielder, has an abnormal heart rate, and is continuing his recovery, while another midfielder, Xavi, and a new recruit, Jeremy Mathieu are going through a separate training course.

However, Luis Suarez's appearance is still a doubt because of his four- month, nine- match suspension from his biting incident with Italy's Giorgio Chiellini.

Still, Neymar's fast recovery is a surprise, and it is now only a question of 'what could have beens' if Neymar was fit enough to play for Brazil during the World Cup.

With reports from: goal.com