Sunderland medical chief Glen Rae says David Meyler is making good progress from knee surgery.
Meyler, 21, ruptured ligaments on both sides of the joint and underwent surgery soon after the incident.
The initial prognosis suggested a lay-off of up to 12 months and it's clear Meyler has a long road ahead of him.
But the initial signs are good according to Dr Rae, who told safc.com: "David is progressing well in the early stages of his rehab following his injury."