Nottingham Forest defender Michael Dawson is “making very good progress” after previously suffering a setback in his bid to return from a persistent hamstring problem.
The 35-year-old has been sidelined since December, when he was forced off during the 2-0 victory at home to Ipswich Town.
He was edging his way back towards full fitness in January, when he suffered a relapse of the injury in one of Martin O’Neill’s first training sessions after the Northern Irishman had replaced Aitor Karanka at the helm.
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O’Neill is hopeful the centre-back, who has made 13 appearances this term, may soon be available for selection though, as the season enters the final run-in.
There are eight games of the campaign remaining, starting against Swansea City at the City Ground after the international break, with the Reds sat three points outside the play-off spots.
However, the Forest boss remains cautious about bringing Dawson back into the fold too soon.
“Michael is making very good progress, he has not trained with us yet,” said O’Neill.
“His enthusiasm to get back, set him back last time.
"There was a new manager coming in and he wanted to get out there and prove a point.
“He was not absolutely at full stretch when he suffered the injury and sometimes that can play on your mind.
“So it is best for him to get it cleared up as best as possible, so that he is ready and does not miss any more games. He is doing well.”
