Holger Badstuber made his return to training following a 17-month absence due to knee ligament issues
Holger Badstuber made his return to training following a 17-month absence due to knee ligament issues

Badstuber makes long-awaited return

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Munich - It hasn't been the easiest of weeks for FC Bayern München, but the German record titleholders have received a timely boost after made his return to training.

Silver lining

Following a 17-month absence due to an ongoing knee ligament ailment, the Germany centre-back was able to take part in select team exercises, including passing and shooting drills, at the Bavarians' Säbener Straße training ground on Thursday.

There was further positive news for FC Bayern as managed to complete an intense running program. The Swiss winger has been labouring under the effects of torn muscle fibres in his thigh, but is confident he'll still have a part to play before the end of the season. "I'm hoping to be able to feature in the DFB Cup final so that I can help the team lift another trophy," Shaqiri told FCBtv News.

The Reds' injury woes are gradually becoming more manageable for head coach Pep Guardiola, who gave his players the day off after their 4-0 defeat to Real Madrid CF in the UEFA Champions League. It didn't stop certain FC Bayern squad members breaking a sweat, though, with Thiago Alcantara and Julian Green resuming light training on Wednesday as they continue to battle for full fitness.

In addition, Mario Götze, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Mitchell Weiser and Leopold Zingerle all came in of their own accord to undertake some light exercises with the ball.