Eric Abidal recovering after receiving liver transplant

The Barcelona and French national player, Eric Abidal, underwent a liver transplant on Tuesday which finished around midnight and is recovering today. The player received a transplant from his cousin Gerard and expressed gratitude on his Facebook page in a message written by his wife.

¿He really wants to thank all of you for your messages, your support, and all the strength you give him. Thanks a Lot!¿ wrote his wife Hayet Abidal, while confirming he had undergone surgery on Tuesday.

The Barcelona defender also received support from his team, who dedicated its 4-0 win against Getafe to the French player.

¿We know that Abidal and his cousin (Gerard, the donor) are recovering well after the operation,' added Barcelona president Sandro Rosell.

The player also received support from many of his teammates during the post-match press conference yesterday as the Catalan team closed in to within one point of Real Madrid in La Liga.

The transplant took place in relation to a tumor Abidal had removed in March of last year (which resulted in the team dedicated the Champions League trophy to him).

There has been no timetable set for his return to the fields, but both Rosell and his wife Hayet have confirmed that there have been no complications and his recovery will begin as soon as possible.