Midweek training at Cobham has been closer to a full session than during many an international break.

A limited programme of international fixtures yesterday and today has resulted in a staggered return this week for players who have been away.

With England playing just one match, in the Middle East at the weekend, John Terry has been back at Cobham. He was in light training on Tuesday in the wake of the minor ankle problem that kept him out of action against Brazil. Today (Wednesday) he trained normally.

Also taking full part in the session, mostly one of small-sided exercises, were Ashley and Joe Cole neither of whom made the England trip. Frank Lampard is under treatment at Cobham having suffered a thigh injury during England preparations.

A buoyant presence on the Cobham pitches this week has been John Obi Mikel now the cloud of World Cup elimination has lifted from over him. He will no doubt be ready to have a word with Salomon Kalou when the Ivorian reports back tomorrow - his friend and team-mate having told Mikel when side-by-side for a recent Chelsea TV interview that he should not worry, he is young enough to play in future World Cups.

Sam Hutchinson, on his way back from an injury suffered in the reserves at the beginning of October, and Gael Kakuta, fresh from France Under 19s participation in a four-nation tournament were able to increase the numbers, and Alex and Juliano Belletti gave training a strong Brazilian presence. The reserves are next in action on Monday, at home to Birmingham.

Daniel Sturridge reported back following his start for England Under 21s last night but it was a day of recovery for the striker.

For goalkeeping coach Christophe Lollichon, it has been a week with a difference, as for once he trains Petr Cech and Ross Turnbull while wondering how it is going for Hilario, away answering the international call.

Tomorrow, training is in the afternoon, allowing time for those playing tonight to fly in, many hopefully with South Africa-bound smiles on their faces.

For Carlo Ancelotti, today marks the last day of training with such a reduced group of players until March.

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