Paris Saint-Germain Provide Injury Update on Neymar

Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar is expected to return in January after sustaining an ankle injury in the match with Lyon last weekend.

It's certainly news that is much better than first feared for the French champions. Neymar was seen crying in pain during the 1-0 defeat last Sunday following a challenge from Thiago Mendes, and there were initial concerns he had suffered a break or other serious damage.

PSG have however confirmed that Neymar has suffered a sprain and some bruising.

The club said in a statement on Saturday: "Following the sprain to his left ankle, there is some bruising to the bone and he continues to undergo treatment at the training ground. He is expected to make his return in January."

It means that Neymar will miss the top of the table encounter with Lille on Sunday, even after manager Thomas Tuchel had suggested in the week the 28-year-old could be in line for a surprise return.

"It's not impossible to see Neymar again before the winter break. Maybe against Lille, we hope," the German head coach told a pre-match press conference. "We'll do everything for Lille. I can't say yes or no. We must wait to see the results of the last exams."

Lille sit one point ahead of PSG going into the game, with the side from the capital having lost four of their 15 Ligue 1 games already this season. They will go top of the table with a win, however.

PSG also confirmed that Danilo Pereira is also set for a January return from a hamstring injury, though Mauro Icardi and Pablo Sarabia could come back soon. Juan Bernat is continuing rehabilitation.