Bayer Leverkusen get boost in top four race as Tella nears full fitness

One-time Bundesliga winners Bayer 04 Leverkusen have gotten a boost in their race for the UCL spots as Nathan Tella edges closer to a return to action, Afrik Foot reports.

The former Southampton FC attacker has been sidelined since January with a foot injury, but he is now nearing a comeback alongside goalkeeper Mark Flekken and Moroccan youngster Eliesse Ben Seghir.

Tella has been limited to just 14 appearances for Die Werkself across all competitions this season. He missed eight weeks of action between September and November due to a knee problem.

Upon his return, the 26-year-old was slowly eased into action, playing 215 minutes across ten games before suffering an ankle injury in the first week of January.

Leverkusen get big boost with Tella’s return

As per German outlet Kicker, Mark Flekken, Eliesse Ben Seghir, and Nathan Tella have returned from their respective injuries and could be back on grass soon.

Their progress suggests a return to full team training is imminent, offering a timely boost for Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand as the club pushes for a strong finish in the Bundesliga.

If recovery continues as planned, one or more of the trio could be available for selection as early as next week, or at the latest before the upcoming international break later this month.

For Nathan Tella, the return would end a frustrating spell on the sidelines.

Meanwhile, Ben Seghir has been recovering from a serious ankle injury sustained after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, while Flekken has also been out since January.

Bayern clash possible return date

Both Tella and Ben Seghir could potentially be in contention to feature in Leverkusen’s league clash against FC Bayern Munich on March 14, depending on how quickly they reintegrate into team training.

However, due to their long injury layoffs, neither attacker was registered for the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League.

That means they will miss Leverkusen’s round-of-16 tie against Arsenal FC three days before the game against Bayern.

Kasper Hjulmand’s side are currently sixth on the Bundesliga table, just three points outside of the top four, and the return of the trio should be enough to help them get their chase over the line.