Falcao returns after six months out

   

Monaco striker Radamel Falcao made his first appearance for over six months as a second-half substitute in his side's 2-2 friendly draw against Valencia in the Emirates Cup in London.

The 28-year-old Colombia international had not played since rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during a Coupe de France game against amateur side Chasselay on 22 January. The injury cut short his debut season at the big-spending Ligue 1 club and prevented him from appearing at the FIFA World Cup™, where Colombia reached the quarter-finals.

Falcao replaced Dimitar Berbatov with 18 minutes to play at the Emirates Stadium, taking up a central role alongside Valere Germain in a 4-4-2 system, but did not manage any attempts on goal.

"Falcao played for 20 minutes to help him overcome his anxiety, which is natural when you come back after six months without playing," said Monaco coach Leonardo Jardim. "He played well. It was important for him to play a bit, so tomorrow (Sunday, against Arsenal) he can play from the beginning. Let's see tomorrow if he can play for 60 minutes or just 45."

Monaco, runners-up to Paris Saint-Germain last season, open their Ligue 1 campaign at home to Lorient a week on Sunday.

Valencia's season does not begin until 23 August, when they visit Sevilla in La Liga.