Neymar boost for PSG and Brazil as he closes on return to training

Unai Emery feels the attacker could play for the Ligue 1 club again before the end of the season as he aims to prove his fitness for the World Cup

Neymar could yet feature for before the end of the season, according to head coach Unai Emery.

The star suffered a fractured foot against rivals in February, with the injury initially putting his participation in the World Cup in doubt.

But Neymar has recovered well and he could see some playing time before the end of the domestic campaign, offering a boost to club and country.

PSG released a statement on Friday confirming his positive steps in recovery, saying:

"The report released today by Dr Rodrigo Lasmar confirms the excellent evolution of the injury of Neymar."

"He can now start the rehabilitation of his right ankle and progressively starting to walk.

"The speed of recovery in the next 10 days will set the optimum date to start training without restriction."

Earlier, Emery had indicated Neymar was on his way back and could rejoin the team before the end of the season.

"Neymar is close to coming back to training, based on the latest tests," he told a news conference.

"He had a good medical examination and, when he gets here, I'm sure he will want to play.

"He may have time to play for us before the end of the season. That's what we're working towards."

Emery is widely expected to be replaced by Thomas Tuchel at the end of the season, but the current PSG coach says he remains focused on results for now.

Although PSG are yet to clinch top spot in , a win against champions on Sunday would be enough to snatch back the title - and only then will Emery discuss his situation.

"I am very focused on every game and on my job," he said. "When our targets are met, it will be time to speak. For the moment, everyone is focused on the matches."