Chelsea star N'Golo Kante returns to contact training ahead of Premier League return - in pictures

French World Cup winner had initially opted to work alone amid virus fears

N'Golo Kante during a training session at Chelsea training ground. Getty

Olivier Giroud and Michy Batshuayi during a training session. Getty

Willy Gaballero, NGolo Kante, Pedro, Jorginho, Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Alonso, Antonio Rudiger, Olivier Giroud and Willian celebrate winning a mini tournament during a training session. Getty

Mateo Kovacic and manager Frank Lampard during a training session. Getty

Olivier Giroud and Michy Batshuayi. Getty

Mason Mount during the training session. Getty

Chelsea midfielder N'Golo Kante has made a return to full contact training ahead of the Premier League restart next week.

Kante had been training individually at Chelsea's Cobham training ground after he expressed concerns over his safety due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and was initially granted compassionate leave to miss the squad's return.

However, the 29-year-old was reintegrated with Frank Lampard's first team squad on Tuesday, and the World Cup winner will be expected to play a pivotal role in the closing stages of the campaign.

"Kante joined in as the team indulged in a series of different skill activities using various props," Chelsea said in a statement.

"The midfielder looked sharp as he took part in a series of rondos before finding the net with a smartly placed shot in the practice game."

Chelsea will restart their Premier League campaign against Aston Villa on June 21.

With nine games remaining, Lampard's side sit fourth in the standings, three points clear of Manchester United, as they chase Champions League qualification.

To view Chelsea training, click on the arrows or simply swipe to look at the next image.