Argentina Copa America Hero Pushing To Return To Fitness – But Inter Milan Won’t Take Any Risks

Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi is playing it safe with Lautaro Martinez's recovery from a thigh problem

The 24-year-old has been out of action since picking up the injury in a pre-season friendly with Lens on July 23

Striker Lautaro Martinez is pushing to return to fitness for Inter Milan but the club are not prepared to take any risks with the Argentina international's recovery.

Martinez, 24, has been out of action since picking up a thigh problem in a pre-season friendly with Lens on July 23.

The striker has been working hard in rehab and is now close to making a return to action.

However, Inter are not prepared to rush him back and will only allow him to play when he is fully fit.

Inter boss Simone Inzaghi said: "Lautaro is working hard and he is close to returning to the team.

"But we are not going to take any risks with him.

"We want him to be 100% fit before he plays again."

Martinez is a key player for Inter and his return will be a boost to the team.

The Argentina international scored 21 goals in all competitions for Inter last season and was also part of the Argentina team that won the Copa America.

Martinez is expected to be fit for Inter's first game of the season against Lecce on August 13.

However, Inzaghi could decide to give him more time to recover and save him for the team's Champions League opener against Bayern Munich on September 7.