Axel Disasi is targeting a a return to action against Inter Milan this weekend following surgery on a hernia issue which has meant he’s yet to feature in pre-season.
The Frenchman arrived at the club last summer from Monaco and was an important part of the Chelsea backline as the Blues rallied in the second half of the campaign to secure a top six finish.
Disasi made 44 appearances in all competitions under Mauricio Pochettino, scoring three goals but he faces stiff competition for a place in the starting line-up this season.
Disasi almost ready to return to action
It was revealed the 26-year-old played through the pain barrier last season to help Chelsea secure European qualification which is why his preparations for the new campaign have been disrupted as he had to undergo surgery.
The Blues are currently preparing for the final game of their tour against Real Madrid on Tuesday before flying back to London ahead of their final pre-season game against Inter Milan at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Disasi has issued an update on his fitness and revealed he’s lost some strength from his injury but hopes to be back very soon.
“I am back on the pitch, not fully, but I’m close,” he told Chelsea’s website.
“I am feeling good. There is some strength that I lost from my injury that I have to get back, but I hope I will be fit very soon.
“You won’t see the injured players in full training but we are still working very hard on our side. We do particular stuff.
“Sometimes I do stuff a defender has to do in relation to the way the manager wants to play, so when I come back with the team, I’m not lost.”
Disasi is targeting a return to action against Inter Milan on Sunday, and said he will play if he feels ready.
“I am coming back with the team, not fully, but we will see how my body reacts, and of course, if I feel ready I will be ready to play.
“‘It’s been a long time since we played at home and I miss the feeling of playing at the Bridge. The atmosphere with the fans is top. I will work hard to be able to play in front of my fans because I care about them and love playing in front of them.”
