Neymar's return to Paris raises WC hopes

PSG's star striker Neymar will fly to Paris from Rio on Friday with an almost fully healed foot, which should increase his chances of competing at the World Cup in June with the rest of the Brazilian national team.

According to French daily, L'Equipe, the former Barcelona forward was warmly welcomed by Brazilian fans. However his return might be too late for his club.

During Neymar's absence, PSG regained the French league title and the League Cup despite their elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Real Madrid.

The 26-year-old forward broke a bone in his right foot on February 25 playing for PSG, and has been recovering after an operation in Brazil in early March.

L'Equipe reported that Neymar has been walking without crutches for two weeks. Last week, the star forward said in Rio that he would prefer a rest before a final medical on May 17, two days ahead of PSG's last match of the season.

"He needs to be left alone to work with the physios, but we also want him to be with us for the last match," said PSG coach Unai Emery on Thursday. The coach added that he had not spoken to Neymar for "some weeks", and was not certain about the exact date of Neymar's return to Paris.