Kylian Mbappe could make France return from the bench against Italy

Kylian Mbappe is in contention to feature for France against Italy in Thursday’s Nations League group-stage meeting, despite previously being ruled out with an injury.

France face Italy in the fifth round of fixtures in Group A of Nations League League A, with the match taking place on Thursday evening.

According to Italian broadcaster Sky Sport, Mbappe could be included in France’s squad for the game. The Real Madrid forward is expected to start on the substitutes’ bench, but could be given a few minutes during the match.

France manager Zinedine Zidane said at Wednesday’s news conference that Mbappe would miss the fixture because of injury.

Mbappe was absent from France’s previous international break after being injured in the national team’s opening match against Turkey. He was taken off in the 56th minute and subsequently left the squad’s training camp.

France lead Group A with 10 points from three wins and one draw, while Italy are second on seven points.