Luis Enrique confirmed that defenders Lucas Hernandez and Presnel Kimpembe have rejoined the Paris Saint-Germain ranks after their respective long-term injuries. 

Kimpembe has missed almost two years of action, last featuring in a 3-0 win over Marseille in February 2023 after he ruptured his Achilles tendon. 

Hernandez, meanwhile, underwent surgery in May after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in PSG's Champions League semi-final against Borussia Dortmund. 

Luis Enrique said both players were nearing a return to first-team action, but said the pair must be given time before they are regularly seen back on the pitch. 

"These are players who are returning. Lucas Hernandez and Presnel Kimpembe have readjusted to the team," Enrique told reporters on Thursday.

"They need rhythm, they lack the process of taking the time to train being able to help the team.

"The injuries are a thing of the past, and it is good news that they are back in the group."

The Parisiens travel to the Stade de l'Abbe Deschamps this weekend to take on Auxerre, hoping to maintain their unbeaten start to the Ligue 1 season. 

Luis Enrique's side have 33 points from their 13 games so far, scoring a division-high 37 goals, which is eight more than second-placed Marseille. 

Following this Friday's game, PSG take on Lyon, Monaco and Lens in December, with all three teams currently in the top seven in the standings. 

Luis Enrique, however, was keen to focus on one game at a time, hoping to maintain their impressive record on the road, having gone unbeaten in their last 30 Ligue 1 away games (W23 D7).

The previous record run in the top-flight’s history was held by Lyon (21 between 2005 and 2006).

"I think we have an intense schedule, but the idea is more or less to control the players' workload and prepare for the matches properly," Luis Enrique said.

"It's a normal schedule. Auxerre is a team with very good results at home and difficult to play. They are well-organised. We have to win.

"They've won a lot of home games. They're in a good period, they've mastered the side reversals well.

"They're on a good run, it's going to be difficult, there's no doubt about it."