Sunderland’s Aji Alese trains with boxer Johnny Fisher as injury comeback continues | OneFootball

Aji Alese has been pictured training with British heavyweight Johnny Fisher. According to Sunderland Echo, the Sunderland defender is continuing his comeback after a long injury lay-off.

The 25-year-old was ruled out for the remainder of last season after a serious groin injury on loan at Portsmouth. He suffered it shortly after coming off the bench in a defeat to Preston North End, his debut after a January move from Sunderland.

The loan aimed to give him minutes after a lengthy spell without regular football, but his return lasted only a handful of minutes. Alese has been working in the gym with Fisher, the heavyweight nicknamed “The Romford Bull”. Fisher, 27, has 14 wins from 15, with 12 by knockout.

There is a personal link, as Alese was coached in youth football by Fisher’s father, also called Johnny Fisher. He joined Sunderland from West Ham United in July 2022 and initially impressed with his athleticism and versatility across the back line. Injuries have since stalled his progress.

Before the groin issue, Alese had already spent more than a year without a Sunderland first-team appearance after a serious shoulder problem. He was also sidelined after breaking his leg in January 2025. He has made just 46 appearances in all competitions for Sunderland in four seasons.

The update is an encouraging sign of progress. Sunderland will monitor his rehabilitation closely at the Academy of Light, with the defender under contract as the club prepare for a Premier League and Europa League campaign.

Source: Sunderland Echo