Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o has handed Spanish side Barcelona a boost by returning to training on Monday after three months out with a knee injury.

He has been out of action since damaging his right knee in the Champions League tie against Werder Bremen on 27 September.

The initial prognosis was that the Eto'o would be unable to play for five months but he has made better than expected progress.

"I think that in two weeks he could be ready to play but that depends on the coach," said Barcelona club doctor Ramon Cugat.

Barcelona, who lie second in La Liga despite losing 3-1 at local rivals Espanyol on Saturday, have badly missed his firepower.

"He's a very important player both on and off the pitch," said Barca club captain Carles Puyol on Sunday.

"Off the pitch, he's a character who is always lively. On it, I think he's the best forward in the world."

Last season, Eto'o scored 26 goals in La Liga and six in the Champions League as Barcelona swept to both titles.

He scored four goals in the league this season before the injury.

"I am determined to be the leading scorer this season in Spain," said Eto'o earlier this month.

"The gap between me and others is not much. With hard work, personal sacrifice, I can catch up. I will catch up."