Kompany returns to Bayern training ground for first time since collapse

Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany during the press conference REUTERS/Lisi Niesner

Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany returned to the club's training ground on Tuesday for the first time since collapsing during a practice session last month, taking another step towards his return to the touchline.The 40-year-old visited Bayern's Säbener Street complex for medical appointments, according to Kicker magazine. He is expected to resume his duties after the international break, with the club hoping to have him back for their Bundesliga match against Cologne on November 20.

Bayern had no team training on Tuesday as most of the players were away on international duty. Club veteran Uli Hoeneß had said on Sunday that Kompany would be back in time for the Cologne game.

What happened to Kompany?

Kompany collapsed on October 23 while watching a training session and was taken to hospital. He was diagnosed with meningeal irritation, an inflammation of the tissue surrounding the brain or spinal cord. The Belgian had also been recovering from a viral infection and a hip injury.

His return to the training ground is an encouraging development as he continues his recovery, although he is yet to resume full coaching duties.

Bayern maintain winning run in his absence

Assistant coach Aaron Danks stepped in to manage the team while Kompany was away. Bayern have largely done well under his charge, recording victories against Freiburg, Magdeburg, Atletico Madrid and Mainz.Their only setback during this period was a 2-2 draw against Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga's much-anticipated Der Klassiker on October 31.Bayern will now hope to have Kompany back in the dugout for the Cologne fixture as they look to continue their strong run under the Belgian coach.