It’s all Wyke now as Charlie gets go-ahead for return to training

CHARLIE Wyke is closing in on a return to action after being cleared by a specialist to return to training.

The big summer signing has had a limited impact for the Black Cats since joining from Bradford City in the summer as injuries have limited him to just four appearances in total.

His fourth appearance did not last long, however, after he came out worse in a challenge with Burton Albion’s goalkeeper and suffered a recurrence of the knee ligament damage he suffered before moving to the Stadium of Light.

Undergoing rehabilitation since, the 25-year-old striker (pictured) was given good news on Tuesday as his specialist cleared him to resume training.

Sunderland are unlikely to rush Wyke back but he could be back in action before Christmas, which was the initial timeframe put on the length of his absence by manager

Jack Ross.

Posting a picture of himself celebrating his only goal for the club to date on Instagram, Wyke wrote: “All clear off the specialist, not long to go now!”

His good news didn’t excuse him from a little ribbing from team-mate Max Power, however. The midfielder commented on the post, saying: “Love that Tin Tin,” presumably implying the striker looks like the fictional cartoon character. Having joined the club with a knee injury, Wyke finally made his debut for the Black Cats in the 1-1 draw with Oxford United.

Brought on at half time with Sunderland trailing 1-0 and down to ten men, he made an instant impact netting just seven minutes into the half to earn a point.

Ross revealed recently Wyke was devastated he had been unable to make an impact – but this latest update might hopefully mean he will be showing Sunderland fans his class within the next few weeks.