Chelsea midfielder N'Golo Kanté has returned to individual training, following a period of compassionate leave.
The Frenchman had been excused from training earlier in the week due to coronavirus fears, a move that was supported by Blues boss Frank Lampard and his teammates.
It was reported soon after that the midfielder was willing to sit out the remainder of the campaign while the threat of COVID-19 still loomed large, but he has now returned to prepare for the Premier League's imminent return next month.
According to Goal, Kante returned to Chelsea's Cobham training facility today to complete an individual session away from the rest of his teammates.
The Office of National Statistics have reported that black men and women are almost twice as likely to die after contracting COVID-19 - even when factors such as health, disability and social class are factored in.
Kante also scared his teammates in March 2018 by collapsing in front of them at the club's training ground, though rigorous medical testing after this incident cleared him of any health concerns.
✍️ Kanté took part in Tuesday's session, but it is claimed that the World Cup winner is not entirely convinced by the decision to return to training.
— 90min (@90min_Football) May 21, 2020
The World Cup winner has endured a injury hit season so far, making 22 appearances in all competitions and scoring three goals. When he has played though, the midfielder has impressed and Lampard will be keen for him to play a part in Chelsea's remaining Premier League fixtures, as well as their FA Cup quarter final against Leicester.
With or without Kanté, the Blues will return to action on 19 June after a restart date for top flight English football was agreed.
Chelsea resume their league campaign with a seemingly straightforward trip to relegation threatened Aston Villa. They are currently sat in fourth placed with a slender, three point lead over fifth placed Manchester United. The race for Champions League qualification is on, and Kanté's presence will undoubtedly aid the Blues' cause.
Source : 90min