Christian Kofane closes in on Bayer Leverkusen return ahead of Cologne derby

Christian Kofane is edging closer to a return to action for Bayer Leverkusen after rejoining full team training, although his availability for Sunday’s Bundesliga derby against FC Koln remains uncertain.

The 20-year-old Cameroon international has spent several weeks on the sidelines after suffering a muscular injury in his left thigh while on international duty in October.

However, the striker has made encouraging progress in his recovery and is now working towards regaining full match fitness.

Speaking at Friday’s press conference ahead of the derby, head coach Carles Martínez confirmed that Kofane had returned to team training and could be considered for the matchday squad.

“Kofane was already ready yesterday; it was more of a precautionary measure to leave him out again. Today he trained with the team. Tomorrow he will try to take another step forward. We hope he will be ready for the squad on Sunday,” Martínez explained.

Kofane was also unavailable for Thursday’s 1-0 Europa League defeat against Olympique Marseille as Leverkusen opted against taking unnecessary risks with his recovery.

Kofane’s return comes at important time for Leverkusen

The Cameroonian’s potential comeback would provide a significant boost to Martínez, who is dealing with several injury problems in his attacking department.

Moussa Diaby, Martin Terrier and Eliesse Ben Seghir are among the attacking players currently unavailable, while Nathan Tella has also struggled with fitness concerns.

Victor Boniface and Malik Tillman have also experienced difficulties finding consistent form, increasing the importance of having additional attacking options.

Kofane had made an encouraging impression before his injury, scoring three goals in six competitive appearances this season.

His return could therefore offer Leverkusen another attacking dimension as they attempt to improve their recent results.

Leverkusen desperate to return to winning ways

The Werkself head into Sunday’s encounter after suffering defeats against TSG Hoffenheim (3-0), VfB Stuttgart (4-2) and Olympique Marseille (1-0) in their last four matches.

They will be eager to end that disappointing run against their neighbours at the RheinEnergieStadion.

Leverkusen currently sit sixth in the Bundesliga table and will be hoping to regain momentum before the international break.

Whether Kofane features from the beginning or makes his return as a substitute will depend on how he responds to his final training session on Saturday.