Leicester City full-back Timothy Castagne is making good progress in his recovery from a fractured eye socket.
What’s the latest?
The 25-year-old suffered the horrific injury just 25 minutes into Belgium’s opening fixture at Euro 2020 against Russia, ruling him out of the tournament.
A clash of heads with Daler Kuzyaev resulted in a six-hour operation for Castagne, who could have seen his playing days ended had the impact been three centimetres higher.
However, despite the serious nature of the collision, Leicester are reportedly hopeful that the defender will be able to return in time for pre-season training, according to the Leicester Mercury.
Rodgers will be buzzing
Castagne had an impressive first campaign in English football, scoring two goals and providing four assists as he made 34 appearances in all competitions for the Foxes.
The former Atalanta man played a pivotal part as Brendan Rodgers’ charges recorded a consecutive fifth-place finish and lifted their maiden FA Cup crown.
Therefore, his speedy return to fitness will surely have the Northern Irish manager buzzing. Leicester return to training in July to step up their preparations for 2021/22, and having Castagne available will be a significant boost.
Friendlies against Burton, Wycombe and Queens Park Rangers have been lined up before the new campaign gets underway at the King Power Stadium when Wolves visit on August 14th.
The Midlands outfit will be aiming to finally break into the Champions League qualifications spots after two near misses in recent years, and having their first-choice full-back in from the off will aid their task.
Rodgers will be especially pleased with the latest update on Castagne due to James Justin’s prolonged absence through a serious knee injury.
Coupled with the fact that experienced campaigner Christian Fuchs has departed the club following a successful six-year stint, Castagne’s absence would have left Leicester very light at the back.
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