An absorbent core suitable for use in an absorbent article comprising: a first absorbent layer, the first absorbent layer comprising a first substrate, and a layer of cross-linked cellulose fibers deposited on said first substrate, a second absorbent layer, the second absorbent layer comprising a second substrate, a layer of superabsorbent polymer particles deposited on said second substrate and a fibrous layer of thermoplastic adhesive material covering the layer of superabsorbent polymer particles. The first and second absorbent layers being combined together such that at least a portion of said fibrous layer of thermoplastic adhesive material contacts at least a portion of the layer of cross-linked cellulose fibers of said first absorbent layer.