Bale returns to full Real Madrid training with Napoli clash looming

Real Madrid welcomed Gareth Bale back to group training Sunday, marking the Welsh star's return after being sidelined for nearly three months with an ankle injury that required surgery in late November.

Bale was forced off near the hour mark of Real Madrid's 2-1 win over Sporting Lisbon on Nov. 22 and diagnosed with a "traumatic dislocation of the peroneal tendons in his right ankle."

He's missed 17 matches for the club, and is unlikely to be made available for the upcoming Champions League Round of 16 tilt against Italian outfit Napoli on Feb. 15 at the Santiago Bernabeu.

In just 16 appearances with Real Madrid this season, the 27-year-old has scored seven goals and recorded three assists. His return will be hailed by manager Zinedine Zidane, who's turned to Lucas Vazquez in Bale's absence.