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Seattle's Dempsey takes part in 1st full training session since heart scare

Jennifer Nicholson / USA Today Sports

Seattle Sounders welcomed back a familiar face to training Tuesday with the return of Clint Dempsey.

The United States international had been sidelined since August due to an irregular heartbeat, but managed to take part in his first full training session as the team prepares for the preseason.

(Courtesy: Seattle Sounders)

Sounders general manager and president of soccer Garth Lagerwey claimed that it's "possible" that Dempsey will take part in exhibition matches before the team's Major League Soccer title defence begins March 4 against the Houston Dynamo.

"We’ve been pleased with his progress," Lagerwey told the team's website. "His attitude has been awesome, he’s worked really hard. He’s now progressed to a point where he’s able to rejoin the team on a regular basis. We still have some steps to get through. We’re excited about what the future may hold.

The team added that Dempsey is medically cleared to participate in training with his teammates, but insists that extra caution will be applied as he attempts to return to fitness.

Dempsey, who appeared in 17 matches and scored eight goals last season, underwent treatment for an irregular heartbeat as the MLS season was coming to a close before he was ruled out for the year in September.

The Sounders went on to capture their first MLS Cup title after defeating Toronto FC in the final.

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