Paris Saint-Germain head coach Mauricio Pochettino has kept his cards close to his chest with regards the health of attacker Neymar but is hopeful he will be back on the field soon.
The Brazil international was injured in a clash against Lyon prior to Christmas.
Initially, it was feared that he could face a long absence, but the prognosis quickly became more positive.
Although optimistic reports suggested he may be fit before the winter break, this did not prove to be the case.
Neymar was also absent for Pochettino’s debut as PSG coach when they faced Saint-Etienne away in midweek, a match they drew 1-1.
Additionally, there is no prospect of him featuring against Brest at Parc des Princes on Saturday.
Pochettino, meanwhile, is optimistic that Neymar will be at his disposal presently.
“We’re going to do an assessment to learn about his progress. We’re following him closely with the medical staff and we’re going to know our strategy so that he is available quickly.”
The former Tottenham boss has had a hurried start to life back in the French capital, where he was once the captain of the team.
He had only three training sessions to prepare his squad for Saint-Etienne and has barely had any more prior to the weekend.
Additionally, he has faced an intimidating injury list, which has been headed by the Brazil star.
That will not ease significantly before the weekend’s match, although Alessandro Florenzi, Layvin Kurzawa and Mauro Icardi are all available again.
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Meanwhile, Pochettino dismissed fears over Kylian Mbappe’s current form.
“He’s in very good spirits, always available in training, and he is the top scorer in Ligue 1. We not expect him to have fun and have a performance in which he shows what he’s capable of doing,” he said.
Despite Mbappe not hitting his peak, he has scored 12 times in 14 Ligue 1 matches this term, though only two in five Champions League games.
Neymar Jr 
Kylian Mbappé 
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Barcelona 
