Phil Parkinson believes Elliot Embleton could be a real ‘bonus player’ for Sunderland in the second half of the season.
Embleton has been out since September when he picked up a hamstring injury on the stroke of half time in the Black Cats’ Carabao Cup win at Sheffield United.
However, following an operation and a spell of rehab in the gym, the 20-year-old is well on the comeback trail and is set to join in with full training next week.
Speaking at today’s press conference, Parkinson talked up the youngster’s pedigree, admitting he is excited to see the Durham-born midfielder get up to full speed.
“Elliot Embleton is back in training but will join in fully next week,” he said.
“He has done a lot of running and a lot of work in the gym which is great.
“He could be a real bonus player for us in this second part of the season.
“Everyone knows what a talent he is," he continued.
“I have watched the games from his loan spell and the early part of the season, so we look forward to welcoming him back into full training and seeing if he can push his way into contention.”