Strootman rejoins Roma training after recovering from knee surgery

Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman has returned to full-team training five months after undergoing knee surgery.

Strootman, who hasn't played in a competitive match since January 2015, required a third operation on his ACL in September. He initially ruptured his cruciate ligament against Napoli in March 2014.

The Dutch midfielder participated in an Under-21 match against Avellino on Friday, playing 45 minutes and scoring a goal.

The latest step in his recovery means he could yet make an appearance for the Giallorossi this season.

"I hope to be back out there playing alongside my teammates as soon as possible," Strootman said last month. "My aim is to win something at this club and give the fans something to cheer about. They deserve it."