Jerome Boateng returns to Bayern training

Berlin (AFP) – Germany defender Jerome Boateng took part in Bayern Munich training on Wednesday for the first time since tearing his right thigh against France in the semi-final defeat of Euro 2016.

The centre-back managed some light running at Bayern’s Saebener Strasse training ground.

There is no date as to when he can return to full team training having suffered the injury in Germany’s 2-0 defeat to the French in Marseille on July 7.

The club says that he will definitely miss the start of the Bundesliga season when Bayern host Werder Bremen on August 26 at Munich’s Allianz Arena.

There was more good news for Bayern as Brazil winger Douglas Costa took part in a 20-minute running session on Tuesday having missed the Copa America with a leg injury.

France veteran Franck Ribery has also returned to full training after suffering a groin injury on Bayern’s pre-season tour of the USA, while Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso is expected to return on Thursday after a knock.

Costa, Boateng and Dutch winger Arjen Robben are all expected to sit out Sunday’s match at Borussia Dortmund for the German Super Cup in the traditional season opener.