Nabil Bentaleb returns to Lille training after injury absence

Nabil Bentaleb has returned to Lille training after a two-week absence caused by the injury he picked up in the defeat to Nice before the international break.

The Algeria midfielder played 77 minutes in LOSC’s 2-1 loss on the Cote d’Azur, but was later ruled out of his country’s international camp. The Algerian Football Federation confirmed his withdrawal on September 21, although neither it nor Lille gave further details about the problem.

Bentaleb then missed training and was absent from LOSC’s friendly against Belgian side SV Zulte Waregem at Domaine de Luchin. His return on Monday was therefore a welcome surprise for Davide Ancelotti and his staff.

The 31-year-old took part in the full session and even won the final training match, a positive sign ahead of Lille’s return to Ligue 1 action. The Dogues face Le Havre on October 10 at 17:15.

Lille also welcomed back international players Soriba Diaoune and Ngal’ayel Mukau during Monday’s session. Bentaleb’s availability would give Ancelotti an experienced midfield option as Lille look to recover from their defeat at Nice.