Monday 22 September 2014 14:04, UK
Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke is edging closer to a first-team comeback, manager Paul Lambert has revealed.
Benteke missed the final few weeks of last season after suffering a ruptured Achilles which also ended his World Cup dream with Belgium.
The 23-year-old has now returned to training and, though Saturday's trip to Chelsea might come too soon, Lambert is preparing to welcome him back into the fold.
"I'm not sure if that one (against Chelsea) might be a bit early but you're looking not too far after that I think," Lambert told the club's official website.
"He has trained this past week with no ill effects. He will train again this week.
"We will see how he is. But he's not too far now."
Benteke will sit out reserve fixtures as he focuses on a return to senior action and could be unleashed on champions Manchester City at Villa Park on October 4.
