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A picture of Ghana defender Baba Abdul Rahman has emerged on the internet with the Chelsea player on-loan at Schalke walking without crutches as he nears a come back to full fitness.

The 22-year-old suffered a ligament damage that ruled him out for six months during the Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon.

There were initial concerns that the defender could take up to eight months to get back to full fitness-but he has responded well to treatment and is expected to start running in the next couple of days.

Chelsea’s medical departments who have been taking care of Rahman have been pleased with his response and recovery rate though they are being careful on a set date for his return.

He had a strong start to the season at Schalke and there were reports that Chelsea was willing to give him out on loan again at Everton before he picked up the injury.

Fellow Ghanaian Abdul Majeed Waris visited him at his base in London to encourage him and spend some time with him.

His imminent return will delight many who were sad to see him pick up the career threatening injury on the rough pitch in Gabon.