Aston Villa midfielder Patrik Berger is finally set to start on the comeback trail by resuming full training on Monday.
The Czech player has been sidelined with a knee problem suffered against Manchester City at the end of October.
But Berger, formerly of Portsmouth and Liverpool, has made good progress and could play in a reserve team outing against Sunderland in 11 days' time.
His return will be a welcome boost for David O'Leary, after the Villa manager was unable to bring in any new players during the January transfer window and saw loan signing Eirik Bakke return to Leeds.
O'Leary said: 'We didn't bring anyone in last month but having Patrik back is the nearest we'll get to that.
'It's a boost to the players having Patrik and Kevin Phillips back with about three months of the season to go.
'Patrik has been unlucky with injuries since he came here and I know he is someone who can change a game.
'But there is still time for him to make an impact in the final third of the season.'
Berger was initially expected to have surgery but instead was advised to undergo rest and rehabilitation for a two-month period.
This unlucky chap were very unfortunate , really hit by the knee injury .
He should retire for good .
He was,and he will still be my most fav player.
