Sunderland skipper Dean Whitehead is set to return to action this week.
Skipper set for comeback in Scotland
Sunderland skipper Dean Whitehead is set to return to action this week.
The midfielder has been missing since August with knee ligament damage.
However, the former Oxford star did not have surgery as the club's medical staff believed he could recover naturally and he is now on the brink of full fitness.
Sunderland travel to Falkirk on Thursday for Andy Lawrie's testimonial and manager Roy Keane is ready to use the game to test some of his squad, with Stanislav Varga also set for a comeback.
Hope
"I think the Falkirk game could be ideal for Dean in terms of getting his match boots back on," said Keane.
"He has been running round in training as if he's never been out and this game could see him being involved. He's had a scan and all being well he's ready to step it up now with proper games again.
"It's a testimonial game and we want to do it right in terms of sending up a good side that people will want to see.
"As well as Dean, big Stan Varga is back in training. He has been training for a week or so and he could well be available for the game as well."
Carlos Edwards, Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole could also feature at The Falkirk Stadium.
