France midfielder Paul Pogba is reportedly optimistic of being fit enough to make Didier Deschamps's World Cup squad after a boost in his recovery from injury.
The Juventus man is yet to feature competitively in his second spell with the Italian giants due to injury and underwent knee surgery earlier this month, casting doubt over whether he will be available to feature in Qatar.
However, Tuttosport reports that Pogba is now hopeful of being back in time for the Old Lady's Champions League clash with Benfica on October 25.
The next 10 days of recovery will reportedly be crucial in determining whether his target is realistic.
The 29-year-old is currently doing gym work and swimming pool exercises but expects to move to on-pitch rehabilitation soon.
France manager Deschamps has already declared that he will not include the former Manchester United midfielder if he is not fully fit for the tournament.
Pogba was a key member of the France squad that lifted the trophy in Russia four years ago, scoring in the final against Croatia.
Germany
Switzerland
Hungary
Scotland
Spain
Italy
Croatia
Albania
England
Denmark
Slovenia
Serbia
Austria
France
Netherlands
Poland
Romania
Belgium
Slovakia
Ukraine
Portugal
Turkey
Georgia
Czech Republic