Andre Villas-Boas: 'Scott Parker to make December return'

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Scott Parker should make his return from injury before Christmas, according to manager Andre Villas-Boas.

The England international has been sidelined since the start of the season after undergoing surgery on his Achilles.

"It's difficult for him as he still feels pain and is still disturbed in his recovery," said Villas-Boas. "It prevents him from being on the pitch but he has been evolving inside, in the gym, with the medical department.

"It is still within the limits of what we expected. He is making good progress and there has been less pain.

"It will take two or three weeks - we could be looking at Christmas. Hopefully less."

Spurs continue their Premier League campaign on Saturday when they host London rivals Chelsea at White Hart Lane.