Bryan Lasme returns to Schalke training after calf injury

Bryan Lasme has taken an important step in his recovery after returning to full first-team training with Schalke 04.

The 27-year-old forward joined his teammates on Tuesday for the first time since suffering a calf muscle injury in August, ending a spell on the sidelines that lasted several weeks.

Lasme had shown encouraging form during Schalke’s pre-season preparations, attracting attention with a number of goals before the injury interrupted his momentum. His return gives the club an extra attacking option as it enters a demanding stage of the campaign, although the staff will be cautious about accelerating his comeback.

The immediate question is whether Lasme will be ready to make Schalke’s squad for Friday night’s away match against Union Berlin. Having only just resumed collective sessions, his fitness and match sharpness will be assessed over the coming days before a final decision is made.

A place in the travelling group would represent a positive milestone, but Schalke are unlikely to take unnecessary risks with the forward. Lasme will first need to show that he can handle training intensity without discomfort.

If he is not selected for Union Berlin, his return to competitive action may come soon after, provided there are no setbacks.