Chelsea have put no timeframe on a return to group training for midfielder N’Golo Kante, after the Frenchman was given compassionate leave over coronavirus fears.
Premier League clubs unanimously approved a return to restricted, non-contact training at a shareholders meeting on Monday and all 20 teams have now resumed some form of sessions.
Kante – who tested negative for the virus - attended Chelsea’s first day back on Tuesday, but was given permission by Blues boss Frank Lampard to skip Wednesday and Thursday’s sessions because of safety concerns.
Standard Sport understands Chelsea have put no pressure on him to return, despite the league working towards a restart.
The Premier League’s target date for resumption is June 12, though some clubs have warned players will need longer to return to full fitness following the enforced two-month break.
ESPN say the 29-year-old is worried about the impact contracting the virus could have on his family, having lost a brother to a heart attack two years ago.
In 2018, Kante fainted in front of his Chelsea team-mates during a training session, though subsequent tests by a specialist allayed fears of any potential heart problems for the midfielder.
Several Watford players, including Troy Deeney, have elected not to train over similar concerns after the club’s testing confirmed three cases among players and staff.
