Ross Barkley has reportedly been told that he is free to return to training with Chelsea next week.
At the start of 2018, Barkley left Everton to pen a long-term deal with the Blues, but the midfielder has featured for just 131 minutes in all competitions.
A hamstring injury has kept the 24-year-old on the sidelines since the end of January but according to The Telegraph, the playmaker is nearing a return to action.
Barkley has made just three appearances all season, but Chelsea and Antonio Conte will be keen for their January signing to make an impact during the closing weeks of the campaign as the West Londoners target the FA Cup and a place in the top four of the Premier League table.
However, England boss Gareth Southgate has already suggested that Barkley will not represent the Three Lions at this summer's World Cup.
Written by
Darren Plant
Darren Plant
