by Chibuike Nkwede
Bayern Munich have received a timely boost ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash against Real Madrid, with star striker Harry Kane returning to training on Monday.
The England captain joined his Bayern teammates during the club’s final preparations as he continues his recovery from a minor ankle problem sustained while on international duty in late March.
Kane had been forced to withdraw from England’s recent friendly defeat to Japan at Wembley after picking up the injury, which was initially described as a minor concern.
The 32-year-old was subsequently left out of Bayern’s squad for their 3-2 Bundesliga victory over Freiburg at the weekend, raising concerns over his availability for the crucial trip to Madrid.
However, the striker appeared in positive spirits during Monday’s 15-minute training session, which was open to the media, offering fresh hope that he could feature in one of Bayern’s biggest fixtures of the season.
Bayern manager Vincent Kompany is expected to make a late decision on Kane’s involvement, with a final call on whether he starts set to be taken on the evening of the match.
Kane’s possible return comes as a major boost for the German champions, given his remarkable form this season.
The prolific forward has scored 48 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions, underlining his importance to Bayern’s attacking ambitions.
In Europe, Kane has been equally decisive, netting 10 goals in nine Champions League matches as Bayern continue their push for continental glory.
With Real Madrid awaiting at the Santiago Bernabéu, all eyes will now be on whether Bayern’s leading scorer is fit enough to spearhead the attack in what promises to be a blockbuster European encounter.