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Jan 29, 07:12 AM

By Barry Wilner

The Associated Press

PHOENIX

Tom Brady was back where he belongs Monday, under center for the New England Patriots' first practice session of Super Bowl week.

The NFL's Most Valuable Player missed three practices last week with a tender right ankle, which was taped for Monday's training at Arizona State in nearby Tempe. According to the Chicago Tribune's Dan Pompei, the designated pool reporter, the quarterback appeared to have a slight limp but participated in all phases of practice.

Coach Bill Belichick declined to comment on injuries or elaborate on Brady's presence.

"Everybody practiced," he said. "The injury report will be out Wednesday."

Brady's return was a welcome sight to receiver Wes Welker.

"Anytime the MVP of the league is back, it has to be a positive," Welker said. "He looks good - the same dimples and all."

Brady talked about the ankle for the first time Sunday, shortly after arriving in Arizona, and said it wouldn't be a problem for the game.

His teammates didn't seem concerned, either.

"I don't worry about Tom," tackle Matt Light said. "I have a bunch of guys in front of me from the Giants to worry about."

Brady's health became an issue a week ago, when he was spotted wearing a protective boot on his right foot while visiting supermodel girlfriend Gisele Bundchen in New York. He sat out all three practices in Foxborough, Mass., when much of the Patriots' game plan was installed.

at issue

Tom Brady's health became a hot topic a week ago, when he was spotted wearing a protective boot on his right foot.

Although Brady, pictured at left during practice, appeared to have a slight limp, he participated in all phases of practice, including jogging the length of the field twice at the end of drills.

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