Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne to make early return from injury?

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has reportedly moved into contention for an appearance against Chelsea next month.

De Bruyne is currently spending his second period on the sidelines with a knee injury, with it initially expected that the Belgium international would not return to action until the middle of December.

However, according to The Guardian, the 27-year-old's progress has been quicker than expected and the playmaker is now likely to be available for the meeting with the Blues.

The report suggests that De Bruyne could potentially play some part of the Premier League meeting with Watford, which takes place four days before the showdown with Chelsea on December 8.

De Bruyne has been restricted to just two starts and three substitute appearances in all competitions this season.