CSKA trio on the mend

PFC CSKA Moskva have received a timely lift with the UEFA Champions League group stage fast approaching with news that three key players are making good progress after injuries.

Akinfeev recovery
Out with a knee problem since February, Brazilian international playmaker Daniel Carvalho will return to full training on 7 September and although the side's opening Group G fixture away to PSV Eindhoven may come too soon, he could be back in time to face Fenerbahçe SK on 2 October. Coach Valeri Gazzaev will have to wait longer to see Igor Akinfeev back in action though the Russia goalkeeper is making good progress as he recovers from knee ligament damage. He is expected to be playing by November and could be in contention for the last three matchdays. Chidi Odiah, meanwhile, should be available again in the next few weeks.