Conor McMenamin is set for a shock return for Glentoran after scans revealed the winger did NOT suffer a fracture to his left fibula.
The Glens had feared McMenamin could be out until the New Year after he was stretched off in last week's ill-tempered draw with Coleraine.
The 27-year-old was caught from behind by Dean Jarvis and was taken to hospital where the initial X-Rays revealed signs of a break.
Read more: Glentoran give update on Conor McMenamin after Showgrounds injury
But after Glentoran requested a second opinion, McMenamin underwent further scans and an MRI over the weekend where results confirmed no fracture.
The winger - who has been the standout player in the Irish Premiership this season - was still in some pain on Wednesday but remarkably returned to light running on Friday.
And now the Glentoran star has been cleared to return to training, although it remains uncertain if he will be considered for Sunday's massive clash with Cliftonville at the Oval.
"We are pleased to announce that Conor McMenamin has been cleared to take part in training," the club said.
"After initial X-rays a ‘spiral fibula fracture’ was diagnosed; since that time, we as a Club, have worked tirelessly to provide Conor with further in-depth assessments and scans.
"Since last Friday's injury Conor has been seen by and consulted with our own Glentoran medical team, the IFA senior doctor, specialists and consultants at Kingsbridge medical centre: the consensus is now that the bone is in tact.
"We thank the Coleraine FC doctor, Peter Reid, for his immediate thoroughness in trauma care, we thank the IFA for the medical team interventions and advice, and we thank the staff and consultants at Kingsbridge Private Hospital for their Input and guidance.
"Our in-house medical team of Dr. Kyle, therapists Sean and Annie have worked around the clock with Conor to get him back on his feet - they all deserve immense credit.
"This has been a massive collaborative effort.
"We know that the entire Glentoran family and the wider football community across NI will welcome this positive news."
Meanwhile, McMenamin - who continues to be on the radar of a number of cross-channel clubs ahead of the January transfer window - thanked everyone for their support following his injury.
He said: “Thanks to everyone who has been supportive this week; I’m just glad to be back and available to train again."
READ NEXT:
- World Cup 2022 Quiz: Test your knowledge with these 11 questions
VAR would have given us the right decision insists Tim McCann
Watch: Rep of Ireland boss gives Mid Ulster League club special shoutout
Man Utd supporters' club in Co Down is second biggest in the world
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox.
