Khedira`s World Cup chances boosted by return to training

Madrid: German midfielder Sami Khedira`s chances of being fit in time for the World Cup were given a boost as he returned to training with his Real Madrid teammates for the first time in five months on Sunday.

The 27-year-old suffered cruciate ligament damage whilst playing for Germany in a 1-1 draw against Italy in November and has spent the majority of the time since recuperating in his homeland. Khedira has been a key part of the Germany side under coach Joachim Loew over the past four years and could still force himself into the squad for the World Cup if he is able to return to match fitness before the end of the season. Of more pressing concern for Madrid is their Copa del Rey final clash against Barcelona on Wednesday. Brazilian full-back Marcelo and Spanish international Sergio Ramos could be fit despite missing Saturday`s 4-0 win over Almeria due to injury as they both took part in training. However, world footballer of the year Cristiano Ronaldo remains a serious doubt as he missed the session due to a hamstring injury.