Kobe Bryant has reportedly been cleared to start running and shooting as he continues to recover from a knee injury.

The Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard missed the majority of the season when he fractured his knee just six games after returning from an Achilles tear.

According to ESPN, the 35-year-old will begin a six-month training programme next week following a visit to a specialist clinic in Germany.

Bryant averaged 13.8 points per game during his limited appearances for the Lakers this season.