Kante ramps up injury recovery in Chelsea friendly

N'Golo Kante has been unavailable for several months after picking up a hamstring injury in Chelsea’s Premier League draw against Antonio Conte’s Tottenham back in august. 

In his absence, the Blues have struggled to replicate his energy and effervescence in midfield, and his impact has been sorely missed. 

The France International was on the pitch for an hour in the friendly against Charlton and came through without any injuries or niggles in his first match since being sidelined. 

Chelsea ran out 3-0 winners thanks to goals from youngsters, Thomas, Malik Mothersille, and Dion Rankine, and Kante looked energetic during his hour on the pitch.

Head coach Graham Potter had hinted at a step up in rehabilitation for the 31-year-old last week as he looks to avoid a reoccurrence of the injury.

“N’Golo’s due to carry on training Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday with potentially a game to give him some minutes,” he said.

Kante’s return to fitness would be an undoubted boost to Chelsea as the season approaches the final stretch.

Chelsea have a minimum of 13 matches remaining with the possibility of more with a Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid on the horizon next month.

Chelsea face Aston Villa, Liverpool and Wolves in the Premier League before the first leg at the Bernabeu on April 12.