Kurt Zouma steps up recovery from knee injury by playing for Chelsea Under-23s

Kurt Zouma is edging closer to a comeback after he played for the Chelsea Under-23s on Monday evening.

The 21-year-old has been on the sidelines since he suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury in February.

Last week, Chelsea manager Antonio Conte said that he was hopeful of the defender rejoining the squad soon.

It is unclear when Zouma will return to Premier League action, but he played 45 minutes of the U23s' 2-2 draw with Derby County at Aldershot's Recreation Ground.

Despite the Frenchman giving away a penalty, he was pleased to get back on the pitch. After the game he tweeted: "Thanks for all the messages & support - good to be back on the pitch tonight."

Zouma made 32 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea last season.