Umtiti completes training session as Barça defender target Lyon return

Umtiti completes training session as Barça defender target Lyon return

Umtiti vuelve a entrenarse con el grupo / | ATLAS

The centre-back has not played a competitive game since November

Good news for Ernesto Valverde. Samuel Umtiti completed training on Wednesday at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper along with the rest of his teammates. It's another big step forward in the Frenchman's recovery.

Remember that the ex-Lyon defender has not played since November due to a problem with his knee. Umtiti turned down surgery in favour of conservative treatment. The fact he's now back in training suggests the treatment has given good results, although it's when he returns to compete that we will really know if he's managed to avoid the need for surgery. 

Umtiti's first comeback -- against Atletico Madrid in November -- ended after just one game. Clement Lenglet's been filling in for him. Umtiti has said he wants to be back for next week's Champions League round of 16 first leg match at former side Lyon.

In addition to Umtiti, Barça B goalkeeper Iñaki Peña also trained with Valverde's team, who are preparing for Saturday's league game against Real Valladolid at Camp Nou.