Emre Can returns to Liverpool training despite fears he would miss season

Liverpool midfielder Emre Can has stepped up his recovery from ankle ligament damage after reportedly returning to training this week.

There were fears that the German international would miss the rest of the season after suffering the injury last month.

Can limped off the field in the second half of Liverpool's dramatic 4-3 comeback victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Europa League.

According to the Liverpool Echo, Can took part in a training session at Melwood on Monday, boosting his chances of returning to action in Thursday's must-win Europa League semi-final second leg against Villarreal at Anfield.

Jurgen Klopp's side head into the showdown with a 1-0 deficit following last week's late defeat in Spain.