Mateo Kovacic has been a massive player for Chelsea over the past few years, and his performance under Thomas Tuchel has seen many refer to him as world-class.

However, for all of Kovacic’s heroics, persistent injuries have made him miss games more often than not.

Kovacic had missed the start of the season for Chelsea and was also absent for most part of pre-season due to a knee injury.

The 28-year-old is back in training and could be available for the game against Leicester City this weekend.

Speaking on his return, Kovacic said: “It’s nice to be back on the pitch after I missed two weeks. It’s tough to come back but very nice and I couldn’t wait to get back on the pitch with the boys and now I’m ready for what’s coming.

“I hate it, it was tough but the injury gives you something to improve on more on the other side and I improved in the gym a little bit I did some extra work so I feel good now to start.

“I hate not to be on the pitch it’s difficult. I try to support the team in tough moments I think it’s important we act as a group and everyone is involved in what we are doing.

“The training was tough for me today it’s not easy to miss pre-season but injuries happen in football and you have to come back stronger.”