Madrid - Rafa Marquez is the third Barcelona player to be hit by swine flu, the European champions announced on Saturday.

Marquez has a high fever and an upset stomach, and will miss Saturday's Liga match away to Athletic Bilbao.

Eric Abidal and Yaya Toure will also miss the Bilbao match through swine flu, though coach Josep Guardiola is hoping that they will both be fit for Tuesday's crucial Champions League game at home to Inter Milan.

In addition, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Gabi Milito are both injured.

Barca have an important week ahead, what with the Bilbao and Inter matches - then "El Clasico" at home to Real Madrid on November 29.

Barca are just one point ahead of Real, who are at home to lowly Racing Santander on Saturday. (dpa)