Chelsea handed massive boost as Eden Hazard returns to training after fractured ankle injury way ahead of schedule

CHELSEA have been handed a massive boost after injured star Eden Hazard returned to training ahead of schedule.

The Belgian midfielder, who had to have surgery after fracturing his ankle on international duty at the start of June, was expected to miss the beginning of the season.

But the 26-year-old was spotted at Chelsea's Cobham training ground training alone while the rest of the squad are on a pre-season tour.

After surgery in early June, the Blues announced that Hazard would not be able to train for three months - leaving him out until at least early September.

But the former Premier League player of the year, who scored 16 goals to help the Blues to a second title in three years last season, was not just going through a light fitness session.

Although it wasn't quite at full throttle, Hazard was being put through his paces in Surrey.

He did ball work, dribbled through cones and passing drills.

It remains unclear if Hazard will be fit in time for the start of the season, but Blues boss Antonio Conte will be hoping to have his star man ready.

Conte also saw winger Pedro pick up an injury in the 3-0 win over Arsenal over the weekend.

The Spaniard suffered a fractured cheekbone after a collision with David Ospina.

Pedro has been sent home from the tour, but is expected to play in the next couple of weeks.

The 29-year-old will have to wear a protective mask, however.

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