Inter are optimistic that defender Milan Skriniar will be fit and available in time for next month’s Champions League quarterfinal first leg match against Benfica.

This according to Italian news outlet Gazzetta.it, who report that the 28-year-old former Sampdoria defender could appear in the match against Juventus in the Coppa Italia, or against Salernitana in Serie A ahead of that first of two legs against Benfica.

Skriniar is still recovering from a back injury, and according to the Gazzetta there is no chance that he would be fit in time to play against Fiorentina on Saturday.

However, the Italian outlet reports, there is optimism that the Slovakian will be able to get back on the pitch not long after then.

According to the Gazzetta, Skriniar could potentially play against the Bianconeri in the Coppa Italia, or more realistically, against Salernitana in the league.

The hope would be that the 28-year-old would get some match fitness with playing time in either of those matches ahead of the massively important Champions League match against Benfica.