Real Madrid set for major fitness boost ahead of Champions League derby | OneFootball

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde looks to be winning his battle to return in time for this week's Champions League clash with city rivals Atletico.

Valverde hasn't featured in Madrid's last two La Liga games against Girona or Real Betis, or the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Real Sociedad.

His last appearance was the Champions League knockout second leg victory over Manchester City, a game he required painkilling injections to play in due to thigh discomfort.

It was reported on Sunday by COPE journalist Miguel Angel Diaz that Valverde was expected to fully join in Monday's training session with the rest of the Madrid squad. That would also then dictate his availability to face Atletico at the Bernabeu.

Ahead of training, Carlo Ancelotti had confirmed: "We will decide after if he plays tomorrow."

Following the session, footage emerged of Valverde being involved normally, suggesting that Ancelotti will likely include the influential 26-year-old in his matchday selection.

Prior to his recent absence, Valverde had been filling in at right-back in the absence of both Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez. The latter returned from a minor hamstring problem against Girona, making it likely that Valverde can be utilised in midfield instead should Ancelotti opt to go in that direction.

The two Madrid giants have faced off in two Champions League finals, contested in 2014 and 2016, with Real emerging victorious on both occasions. The two are also in the midst of a thrilling La Liga title race that involves Barcelona – they returned to the summit with a thumping 4-0 win over Real Sociedad on Sunday afternoon.