Chelsea fans will reportedly have to wait at least three more games before the potential return of N’Golo Kante from his injury.
Kante, 31, hasn’t actually played since mid-August because of a serious hamstring problem.
There’s no doubt the Blues have missed the influential midfielder in the centre of the park, so talk of his return soon is exciting for everyone at the club.
Incidentally, Football London say Chelsea are growing increasingly confident that Kante will sign a new deal at Stamford Bridge, with his current contract expiring in the summer.
N’Golo Kante return
According to Football London, Kante could be back in the Chelsea squad for the trip to Tottenham on 26 February if everything goes smoothly with his rehabilitation.
It is explained that the “fantastic” Frenchman is currently doing individual work at Cobham but may be close to team training.
The report stresses Graham Potter’s side are still cautious about rushing the player back too hastily after a long injury layout, though.
If Kante does return later this month against Spurs, that would mean he misses at least three more matches. There’s two Premier League fixtures against West Ham and Southampton to play, with a Champions League tie against Borussia Dortmund in-between.
We all know how good Kante can be when he’s in full flow, but everyone needs to allow him time to get back up to full speed when he’s fit again.
Enzo Fernandez has been a much-needed boost to the Blues midfield after joining in January from Benfica.
However, hopes of going deep into the Champions League tournament could rest on how Kante reintegrates into the XI. Can they negotiate Dortmund without him, though?
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