Steven Fletcher should soon be back in action for Sunderland according to manager Paolo Di Canio.
The Scottish striker has not played since damaging ankle ligaments in March but is well on his way back to full fitness according to his boss who will maintain a cautious approach.
"His improvement has surprised everybody - we are happy, but more importantly he is happy and excited," said Di Canio.
"We don't have to take a risk. It would be silly to anticipate a time. We won't force it just because we see improvement, because another injury now could put him out for longer; it would be stupid.
"In a few weeks, maybe we can see Fletcher in action. We will keep our fingers crossed. He and the staff have done a very good job; we have handled the situation very well.
"We expect to see him in the next few weeks. I can't say two, three or four - we will see."
