Super Eagles forward Salim Fago Lawal is closing in on a return to action after Viktoria Plzen head coach Martin Hyský delivered an encouraging update on the Nigerian’s recovery from injury.
The 23-year-old has been sidelined since March after suffering a season ending injury shortly after joining the Czech champions from Croatian side Istra 1961 during the January transfer window. However, his rehabilitation is progressing well, raising hopes that he could soon return to competitive football.
Speaking after Viktoria Plzen’s 1-1 draw against Spartak Trnava in a preseason friendly, Hyský revealed that Lawal has impressed the club’s medical and coaching staff during his recovery.
“He is undergoing controlled training and looks very good. I am looking forward to having him back.
“The plan is for him to be able to participate in the second match of the training camp in Austria. We will see how much of the game he will play. We will need his qualities and skills,” the coach said.
Although Lawal travelled with the squad for their preseason training camp, he was not involved in friendlies against SK Artis Brno and Spartak Trnava as the club continues to carefully manage his workload.
The striker made an immediate impact following his move to Viktoria Plzen, scoring two goals in nine appearances before his injury interrupted what had been a promising start to life in the Czech Republic.
His absence also ruled him out of Nigeria’s international fixtures in March, May and June, denying Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle the chance to call on one of the country’s emerging attacking talents.
The latest update will come as welcome news for both Viktoria Plzen and the Super Eagles, with Lawal now expected to feature during the club’s preseason programme if his recovery continues according to plan.
A successful return would also strengthen his chances of reclaiming a place in Eric Chelle’s squad as Nigeria prepare for another busy international calendar in the months ahead.
