Eden Hazard gives Antonio Conte a huge boost by returning to Chelsea first-team training for first time since his horror ankle injury
EDEN HAZARD has given Antonio Conte a huge boost by returning to Chelsea first-team training for first time since his horror ankle injury.
The Belgian star, 26, missed both the Community Shield loss to Arsenal and the opening day Premier League defeat at the hands of Burnley with the knock.
But his return to Cobham will be a massive boost to the squad.
Chelsea's next Premier League outing comes against Tottenham this weekend - but that could be a bit too soon for Hazard.
The flying forward appeared somewhat off the pace as he gingerly worked his way through the session.
Ever-energetic Eden seemed tentative to push himself too hard, too soon after fracturing his ankle while away on international duty back in June.
So while his return is a welcome addition to the squad, it's unlikely he will turn out anytime in the near future, with Conte unwilling to risk him.
Hazard pushed himself through some passing drills but appeared somewhat limited during Tuesday's session at Cobham.
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Pedro meanwhile was one star to sit out the training session, as he still recovers from an injury of his own.
Chelsea succumbed to a shock defeat in their opening game of the 2017-18 Premier League season.
The Blues lost 3-2 at home to Burnley after going three goals down to Sean Dyche's Clarets, after new club captain Gary Cahill saw red.
The England defender will now miss the Spurs game, while Cesc Fabregas is also ruled out after picking up a late second yellow card at Stamford Bridge.
