Chelsea fans finally discover Kante return date as Potter gives injury update

Kante picked up a hamstring injury in August that has kept him on the sidelines for almost seven months, robbing him of the chance to represent his country at the World Cup.

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After a long road back to fitness, Potter revealed that the 31-year old is closing in on a return to the first team but would not be a part of the side that travel to Leicester on Saturday.

When asked if Kante would be joining up with the team this weekend Potter replied: "No, N'Golo won't. We're looking to build him up. We're aiming for Everton."

Kante faces another week of training to build up his fitness before the Toffees arrive at Stamford Bridge next weekend.

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His return will feel like a new signing for Potter who is yet to field the 2018 World Cup winner due to his arrival at the club last September.

Should Kante clock up some minutes in the final game before the international break, he could still have an important role to play as the season draws into its final stages.

Chelsea booked their place in the Champions League quarter-final in midweek after seeing off Borussia Dortmund.

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However, the Blues face a fight on their hands to secure a top-four place and will need to build on their recent upturn in form to stand any chance of qualifying for next season's Champions League.

The west London side are languishing in tenth place, 11 points adrift of fourth-placed Tottenham.

Potter's side face a favourable run of fixtures with strugglers Leicester and Everton up first before Aston Villa head to Stamford Bridge after the international break.