Barcelona, Nov 21 (IANS) Barcelona attacking midfielder Philippe Coutinho returned to group training on Wednesday, after being sidelined for two weeks due to a thigh injury.

The Brazil international's return increases the chances that he will play in Saturday's away game against Atletico Madrid, reports Efe news.

Coutinho had been down since November 6, when he picked up a small tear in the femoral biceps of his left leg during Barça's 1-1 UEFA Champions League tie with Inter Milan.

Some of coach Ernesto Valverde's players were also back at training after international duty, including Spain midfielder Sergio Busquets and defenders Sergi Roberto and Jordi Alba, as well as Netherlands goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen.

Barcelona leads the Spanish league with 24 points, one point ahead of Athletico Madrid, which is in third place on goal differential behind Sevilla.

--IANS tri/sed