Antonio Conte has revealed Chelsea's Kurt Zouma needs time as he steps up his recovery from an ACL injury.
The Frenchman's season ended prematurely when he landed awkwardly in February's draw with Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.
Zouma's injury was initially expected to keep him sidelined for six months, but the 21-year-old last month suggested a return to action before the end of 2016 was more realistic.
The 21-year-old is in Austria training with the rest of the squad ahead of the start of the Premier League season in August, but Conte is cautious not to rush the France international back from his long-term lay-off.
Speaking to media at the club's training camp in Velden ahead of this week's friendly against RZ Pellets, Conte said: "We know Zouma is recovering but he needs time. It's important we don't push him."
The Blues will travel to the US to face Liverpool, AC Milan and Real Madrid following the conclusion of their brief stint in Austria on Wednesday.
