Alex Neil is not ready to write-off Aiden McGeady's chances of playing a part in Sunderland's season just yet, with the Black Cats' promotion campaign possibly extending well into May. The former Republic of Ireland international winger has not played since suffering knee ligament damage in the 1-1 draw at Shrewsbury Town in November.
Neil said recently that there was a 'question mark' over whether the 36-year-old would play again this season, as he struggled to recover from the injury. But this morning Neil has given another update, saying that McGeady has made good progress over the last week and is expected to be back on the grass at the Academy of Light next week - although not yet in full training with the first-team - which would be a significant step forward.
With the regular League One season ending in a fortnight, it is highly unlikely that McGeady would be ready to feature but should Sunderland make the play-offs, they would have two semi-final games in early May and potentially a Wembley final on May 21, and by then the ex-Celtic man could be in contention if he suffers no further setbacks. "I did say we were really reliant on Aiden’s rehab, as much as anything else," said Neil, speaking on the eve of Sunderland's Good Friday home game against Shrewsbury.
READ MORE: Sunderland's Jordan Willis opens up on importance of mental health as he eyes injury return
"He's made better progress in the last seven days, and I anticipate him being on the grass in the next week, although potentially not with us.
"I'm hopeful that in the next week, he might start joining in training again, but it'll be really reliant on how he goes over these next few steps in terms of what he looks like over the next couple of days, when he gets up to his high speed and all of that type of stuff. It'll be a case of how he reacts to that."
McGeady has played 16 games in all competitions this season, scoring three goals and contributing four assists, and will be out of contract this summer.
For the latest Sunderland news direct to your inbox, go here to sign up to our free newsletter
