Zouma training with Chelsea’s first-team squad

Kurt Zouma has been training with Chelsea’s first-team squad following his recovery from a long-term knee injury.

The French defender, 22, has not played for the Blues since suffering cruciate ligament damage against Manchester United in February.

He has been in action for Chelsea’s development side, featuring in a number of their matches since being given the green light to resume playing.

And he joined Antonio Conte’s squad on Wednesday as they prepared for Saturday’s away match against title rivals Manchester City.

Chelsea boss Conte said last week he was looking forward to having Zouma involved with the first team again.

“He’s working with great continuity, he’s playing with the youth team, and this is very important,” Conte said.

“Now it’s of fundamental importance to find a good form, to go into the idea of our football and then to come back and to have the possibility to play with the first team.

“I’m pleased because I am seeing, day by day, great improvement for Kurt.”