Walter Samuel is edging closer to a return to boost Inter Milan's title chances.
The 32-year-old Argentina international has been out since November with a serious knee injury.
Speaking to the Inter Channel, he said: "Now I have some hope of being back before the end of the season. Maybe I'm deluding myself but you never know.
"But more than anything I want to heal well. The team has no need [for me] because they are doing very well and playing very well.
"They have shown it above all in recent months and are in the running for every competition.
"If I could give a contribution, I would certainly be there for my boys," he concluded.
