Karim Benzema has returned to full training with Real Madrid, the club announced yesterday. The 28-year-old striker has not played since being withdrawn at half-time in the Feb. 27 defeat to Atletico Madrid but could be available against Sevilla on Sunday.

The club said: “Benzema rejoined the group for a training session in which Zinedine Zidane had the full squad available.”

Zidane was on hand as Benzema worked out in an individual training session in front of goal on Tuesday and looked sharp.

His return would be a major boost as his team, who lie third in La Liga and trail leaders Barcelona by 12 points, face fifth-placed Sevilla this weekend.

They then confront Barca after the international break – during which Benzema will hope to return to the France squad, having been ruled non-selectable since being questioned over an alleged blackmail plot against international team-mate Mathieu Valbuena.

Benzema was banned from seeing Valbuena under the terms of his release from custody, but that restriction was lifted last week.