Nicolo Barella is on the verge of returning to the Inter Milan starting line-up as he rejoins full training ahead of Sunday’s game against Roma.
According to Sky Spor, as reported by FCInterNews, the 27-year-old today completed his first ‘full’ training session with his teammates after a month.
Barella sustained an ankle problem in mid-September’s Derby della Madonnina against AC Milan.
Despite the initial prognosis suggesting a shorter recovery time, the ex-Cagliari man took longer than expected to return to action.
However, he’s finally back to the fold.
Given Inter’s upcoming fixture schedule, he couldn’t have picked a more opportune moment to return to the pitch.
After Sunday’s trip to the Stadio Olimpico, Simone Inzaghi’s men will have to handle several other matches in the next two weeks.
With Barella being amongst Inzaghi’s best performers, his comeback could be the ultimate confidence booster for Inter.
Inter Milan Star Midfielder Nicolo Barella Back To Full Training Ahead Of Roma Clash
In addition to Barella, Inter could soon welcome Tajon Buchanan back from a long-term injury.
Indeed, the Canada international is close to recovering from a broken leg after several partial training sessions this week.
However, he may not be part of Inzaghi’s matchday squad this weekend.
Even if he does make the cut, he’d likely stay on the bench.
As for Barella, he has a guaranteed place in the starting line-up.
The Italian midfielder was supposed to dislodge his international colleague, Davide Frattesi.
But with Piotr Zielinski’s fitness status in the balance, Frattesi could retain his place in Inzaghi’s XI.
That’s because Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s starting berth is in jeopardy.
The Armenian’s form has dwindled, with Inzaghi reportedly considering starting Zielinski over him.
Yet, the 30-year-old Poland international picked up a minor hamstring problem while away on international duty.