Belgium forward Romelu Lukaku 'returns to individual training'

Belgium have reportedly been handed a boost ahead of the World Cup regarding the fitness of Romelu Lukaku.

When Lukaku left Chelsea for Inter Milan on a season-long loan deal during the summer, he had hoped to earn regular minutes ahead of the tournament in Qatar.

However, the 29-year-old has endured a disastrous return to San Siro, making just three starts and two substitute outings in all competitions.

Lukaku initially missed a two-month period between August and October due to a thigh injury before being able to return at the end of that month.

Before the start of November, however, Lukaku had suffered a recurrence of the same injury, meaning that he has played just 29 minutes of football in two-and-a-half months.

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As a result of his status within the Red Devils camp, Lukaku was still handed a spot in the 26-player squad named by Roberto Martinez.

Although the nation's record goalscorer is unlikely to be risked against Canada on November 23, there is currently hope that he can feature later in the tournament.

According to Sporza, Lukaku has taken the next step towards proving his fitness to his manager by completing an individual training session.

The report suggests that it was 'an individual course of recovery training', and that Lukaku is yet to participate in any sessions alongside his teammates.

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Belgium being drawn in Group F may benefit Lukaku with the team's opening match not taking place until three days after the start of the tournament.

Martinez's side do not conclude the group-stage campaign until December 1, when they face Croatia, and any last-16 tie will not take place until December 5 at the earliest.

Belgium are due to face Egypt in a friendly on Friday when it may become apparent who Martinez will opt for as a replacement for Lukaku.

Michy Batshuayi, who has netted 26 goals from 47 outings for his country, may get the nod.