Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer celebrated his 32nd birthday on Tuesday by returning to training for the first time since September.
Bayern said the Germany captain completed two 10-minute running sessions under the guidance of fitness and rehabilitation coach Thomas Wilhelmi.
Neuer hasn't played since getting another hairline fracture of the metatarsal in his left foot, a repeat of the injury he sustained toward the end of last season.
#läuft 😎 @Manuel_Neuer #MiaSanMia #FCBayern pic.twitter.com/Klynb5MJJE
— FC Bayern München (@FCBayern) March 27, 2018
He said last week he is aiming to return in time to lead defending champion Germany at the World Cup in Russia, and hopes to get some games for Bayern under his belt before the end of the season.
Sven Ulreich has been filling in for Neuer at Bayern, who can secure their record-extending sixth consecutive Bundesliga title on Saturday with a win over Borussia Dortmund, if Schalke also drop points at home against Freiburg.