Neymar Clasico Fear Sparked by Barcelona Star's Visits to Dentist for Teeth Pain

Concerns over Barcelona star Neymar's availability for Saturday's El Clasico against Real Madrid have been raised after the forward endured teeth pain over the international break.

In the build-up to Brazil's World Cup qualifying clash with Peru in Salvador on Tuesday, the Selecao captain had to visit the dentist twice to have problems addressed, per Spanish outlet Sport.

Neymar eventually played the full 90 minutes in the 3-0 defeat of Peru, but the report says "the concern from a Barcelona perspective is if he will be affected for the Clasico."

The 23-year-old Neymar has unquestionably been Barca's star performer this season as he and Luis Suarez have proven a potent attacking duo in the injury-enforced absence of regular talisman Lionel Messi, per football writer Ouriel Daskal:

"

Luis Suarez and Neymar in La Liga since Lionel Messi's injury: 6 games, 16 goals, 5 assists

— Ouriel Daskal (@Soccerissue) November 9, 2015"

Per Lee Roden of ESPN FC, Messi could potentially be fit for the weekend's clash at the Bernabeu.

With Barca currently three points clear of Real at the top of La Liga, the first Clasico of the season could be crucial in the title race.

Messi's return would be hugely welcome for Luis Enrique's side, but Neymar's absence would be a big blow.

VI-Images/Getty Images

Even if Messi does return, he will not be match fit. Neymar, however, is in the form of his life and will be eager to make an impact in one of the world's biggest fixtures.

Dental problems seem fairly trivial compared to some of the injuries often endured by footballers.

But former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard was plagued with numerous injuries early in his career, which were partly addressed by having his wisdom teeth removed, per BBC Sport's Phil McNulty.

The fact that Neymar was able to play for Brazil against Peru is a good sign for Barcelona that he will be fit for El Clasico.

But they will be taking every precaution to make sure he is in top condition ahead of the biggest match of the season so far.