Régis Le Bris handed potential £17.5million injury boost ahead of Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest clashes | OneFootball

Nilson Angulo is nearing a comeback for Sunderland, with the winger potentially included in the travelling squad for Sunday’s trip to Aston Villa, although involvement on the pitch is viewed as unlikely. A home return against Nottingham Forest on April 24 is seen as the more realistic target.

Sunderland Echo notes that reports in Ecuador indicate the 22-year-old is in the final stages of his recovery. He was pictured back in training at the Academy of Light last week, underlining progress after a frustrating absence.

Angulo has been out since sustaining a muscle issue in the build-up to the 1-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion on March 14. Régis Le Bris initially suggested a four to six weeks timeline, and the forward missed several key games, including the Tyne-Wear derby win at Newcastle United. The head coach is expected to be asked for an update at his pre-Villa press conference.

The injury also affected his international plans. Named in Ecuador’s provisional squad for friendlies against Morocco and the Netherlands, he withdrew to continue rehabilitation on Wearside, a decision confirmed by head coach Sebastián Beccacece during the international break.

Signed from Anderlecht in January for around £17.5million, he arrived after seven goals and eight assists in 30 games. He has five Premier League appearances, three starts, and no goal contributions so far. Sunderland are 10th, two points off sixth, with six to play, and Angulo’s return could bolster the wide options.

Source: Sunderland Echo