• Mahrez did not to train or play after failed Manchester City move • Leicester play at the Etihad Stadium but Mahrez may not be fit

This article is more than 2 years old

This article is more than 2 years old

Riyad Mahrez has ended his self-imposed exile by returning to Leicester’s training ground this morning.

The 26-year-old has not trained with his team-mates since Manchester City launched a bid to sign him at the end of the January transfer window. Leicester blocked what would have been a dream move to the Premier League leaders and Marhez then missed the games against Everton and Swansea.

Reports claim Mahrez has made himself available for Leicester’s match on Saturday, which coincidentally is against Manchester City but Claude Puel said the winger would not be involved.

Leicester left to pick up pieces from Riyad Mahrez transfer fallout Read more

The Leicester manager refused to give any indication whether he had spoken to Mahrez since his absence began on 30 January, whether he knew the whereabouts of the player, or if he could put a date on a return, with club officials stressing that keeping details confidential is paramount in adhering to employment law.

However, Puel said he hoped to have Mahrez back in contention as soon as possible, hinting the player may need to work on his fitness first. Mahrez has not played since 20 January.

“I hope he can come back with a good attitude very soon, this is the best solution,” Puel said. “I hope he comes back and works hard but he will need time. And time to be match fit.”

A return to the squad for the FA Cup tie at home to Sheffield United on 16 February is possible.

Mahrez handed in a transfer request in order to try to force a move to City. It was his second attempt at trying to leave after also handing in a transfer request at the end of the 2016-17 season, with Leicester then rejecting a bid from Roma.

The former PFA player of the year, who cost Leicester £400,000 in January 2014, has scored eight goals and has seven assists this season. Leicester have not won a league game during his absence.