Alejandro Valverde has reportedly resumed training after being discharged from hospital following breaking his knee cap in his stage one time trial crash at the Tour de France, just 52 days ago.
It's been reported in Spanish news outlet, El Periodico, that the Movistar rider is set to go against doctor's orders, who have advised the Spanish veteran to race for at least eight months.
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Instead sources claim, Valverde hopes to return to the pro peloton in October where he aims to take part in the Tour of Guangxi in China, beginning on October 19.
Naturally Valverde's team, Movistar, seem apprehensive with the news reporting that they will be monitoring his knee's reaction to training.
However, the Murcian rider has shown a relentless desire to get back on the bike and Movistar feel a quiet race like the Tour of Guangxi could be the perfect place for his return.
Valverde won't be coming into his training cold after a number of intense physiotherapy sessions have seen him tackle the rehabilitation of his knee cap and his foot.
Both suffered nasty injuries after a wet course at the Tour de France in Düsseldorf saw Valverde skid out on a tight corner before colliding with a barrier.
Originally, it was believed that the fracture to his knee cap would end the his season but if Valverde has his way we could see a return before the season dies down.
Without Valverde or Nairo Quintana, Movistar are currently competing the Vuelta a España with a much weakened squad.
The Vuelta continues on August 21 with 158km of riding and the first climbing tests of the rest on stage three.
