Lee Johnson has confirmed that full-back Denver Hume is nearing his return to first-team action after injury, acting as a boost for Sunderland.

The Lowdown: Hume absent this season

The Black Cats have made a good start to their League One season, sitting second in the table with seven matches played.

One individual who hasn't played a single minute to date in 2021/22 is Hume, however, with the 23-year-old out with a hamstring injury.

The Latest: Johnson provides key update

Speaking ahead of Sunderland's league meeting with Bolton Wanderers at the Stadium of Light [via The Sunderland Echo], Johnson claimed Hume will be back soon, playing for the Under-23s in order to step up his recovery:

"Denver is coming along pretty nicely and could get some U23 minutes on Monday night [away at Wolves].

"We’ve then got a game in the Papa John’s Trophy at Lincoln City eight days later, and providing he comes through Monday OK he could have some involvement there."

The Verdict: Big boost for Sunderland

Hume may not necessarily be an indispensable figure for the Black Cats - he made 23 League One appearances last season - but his return will be an undoubted boost, having been hailed as 'unplayable' by Phil Parkinson in the past.

The left-back can provide competition for youngster Dennis Cirkin, who has stepped up and made five league starts already this season, potentially becoming first-choice if he rids himself of his injury problems.

Hume's return may still be a few weeks away, but he will provide more depth for Johnson when he comes back, strengthening Sunderland's promotion push in the process.

In other news, Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips has dropped a verdict on one current player. Read more here.