Neymar aiming to return to action with Barca on Aug. 18

Brazil's forward Neymar lies on the pitch after being injured during the quarter-final World Cup match between Brazil and Colombia at the Castelao Stadium in Fortaleza, Brazil, on July 4, 2014.

Neymar's injured back is healing well and he is aiming to return to action in a friendly for his club Barcelona on Aug. 18, the Brazil forward said on Thursday.

Neymar fractured a bone in his back following a challenge from Colombia defender Juan Zuniga in Brazil's World Cup quarter-final and was ruled out for the rest of the tournament.

"I am recovering bit by bit from the injury and I will arrive in Barcelona at 100 percent," Neymar, who is due back at Barca on Aug. 5, told reporters at a promotional event in Japan.

"I want to have a good season and I would like to help my team mates get good results," he added.

Barca play Mexican side Leon in the friendly at the Nou Camp on Aug. 18, with the winners awarded a trophy named for the Catalan club's founder Joan Gamper. They begin their La Liga campaign at home to Elche the following weekend.

Barca ended last season without major silverware for the first time in six years and coach Gerardo Martino was sacked and replaced by former Spain and Barca midfielder Luis Enrique.

Motorsport
Safari Rally 2024: Neuville clinches Kasarani stage as Hyundai makes intention known
Motorsport
Safari Rally 2024: Will Fourmaux finally break M-Sport Ford jinx in Naivasha?
By Ben Ahenda 5 hrs ago
Motorsport
Safari Rally 2024: Tundo revs off first as Ruto flags off Safari
Motorsport
Safari Rally 2024: Speed, fun and drink as Safari Rally action takes over 'Vasha'