Inter: When will Lautaro return? “I’m fine, I hope to be back soon. Serie A title? It’s a close race, just like a year ago.”

Inter can't wait to have him back, particularly given the physical problems Bonny and Thuram have suffered. His return could prove decisive for the rest of the season.

But how long until Lautaro Martinez returns to the pitch? At San Siro last night to watch Italy, the Argentine striker told Sky Sport he was feeling very positive.

Ahead of Italy v France, Lautaro Martinez confirmed he was close to returning and gave his view on the Serie A title race, with Inter still in contention:

" I've come to watch the match. I'm well and hope to return soon. Have I spoken to Pio and the others? I saw them at Appiano. I was there training this morning and met them. I hope it's a great match. How do I see the season? As last year, the league is evenly balanced. We have to give our all and take it match by match."

Lautaro has kept working during his days off in the international break, aiming to recover fully from the thigh flexor injury that sidelined him after the Champions League defeat to Bruges at San Siro.

Barring any surprises, his "I'm fine, I hope soon" points to a return to group training under Cristian Chivu as early as Monday. Inter begin work at Appiano Gentile that day to prepare for their match against Atalanta after the break.