Sunderland striker Ross Stewart could feature in a behind-closed-doors friendly next week as he recovers from injury, according to journalist James Hunter.
The Lowdown: Stewart missed Sunderland win
The Black Cats made a welcome return to Championship action on Saturday lunchtime, as they hosted Millwall at the Stadium of Light.
Tony Mowbray's team eased to an impressive 3-0 victory against their London opponents, which is made all the more impressive because star striker Stewart wasn't available.
The 26-year-old hasn't featured since the end of August because of a thigh injury, although it now appears as though his return is imminent.
The Latest: Return in sight?
Taking to Twitter in sharing a corresponding article from Chronicle Live, Hunter claimed that Stewart could take part in a friendly next week as he makes positive progress in his recovery.
The journalist tweeted:
"Tony Mowbray explains his decision to leave out Ross Stewart against Millwall, and says the Scot could play in a behind-closed-doors friendly next week."
The Verdict: Massive boost for Sunderland
This is huge news for anyone of a Sunderland persuasion, with Stewart arguably the most influential player at the club, having scored 26 goals in League One last season.
The Scot's return would suddenly give the team are far more dangerous adnd potent look to it, even though they fared impressively without him against Millwall.
Sunderland need to be careful with Stewart, though, in terms of not rushing him back too soon and easing him in gradually, but having him available for the upcoming Christmas period could be massive.