Emerson Royal working towards full Milan recovery after injury on January 22

Emerson Royal has resumed running in training and is working his way towards a return to the Milan squad.

The 26-year-old has been out of action since suffering a calf strain during the Champions League tie against Girona in late January.

According to MilanNews, the Brazilian has today started running in the sand pit again for the first time since his injury.

It is still only a stepping stone to full recovery, as the sand is less harsh on the muscles than running on grass, so his return to the pitch is still a few weeks away.

Milan only missing Emerson Royal

Emerson Royal is the only remaining injury absentee for Milan as they prepare for the final push in this season.

They need to climb back up the Serie A table if they are to qualify for Europe, and also face Inter in a two-legged Coppa Italia semi-final.

Former Tottenham Hotspur right-back Emerson Royal has made 26 competitive appearances for the Rossoneri so far this season.

He is widely expected to be sold this summer, having been replaced by Kyle Walker in January.