Kante returns to training, set to sign a new contract

Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante has returned to training and is also close to agreeing a new deal, according to The Telegraph.

The 31-year-old has not featured under manager Graham Potter. He has been out since August, suffering a hamstring injury during the 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur.

If he can stay fit, he will likely get his first minutes on the pitch early in March.

Kante’s injury woes have been a running theme since the 2018/2019 season. His game time has consistently gone down.

He is Chelsea’s best player on his day, but those days are far and few now.

Potter will appreciate the Frenchman’s return. Chelsea’s midfield needs a dominant presence, and Kante can bring it.

Kante could form a midfield of World Cup winners with Premier League record signing Enzo Fernandez.

His return will boost Chelsea, who need anything positive to cling to now. The Blues have recorded only two wins in their last 15 games under Potter, leading to calls for his sack.

However, Chelsea’s new owners have backed the manager to turn things around. They are keen on giving him the time, but they are aware of the fan unrest.

Chelsea paid Brighton & Hove Albion £15 million for Potter and signed him to a five-year deal because they believe this is a long-term project.

Kante is also close to agreeing on a new contract with Chelsea. He has only a few months on his current deal, which expires in June.

The former Leicester City man has settled in London, where he has won trophies and established himself as one of the best midfielders in the game.