Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes remains hopeful Ryan Nelsen will be fit to return at some point next month.
The New Zealand international has not kicked a ball in anger this season because he required an operation on a hamstring injury.
However, the Kiwi defender resumed light training several weeks ago and he is on course for a first team return early in the New Year.
Hughes said: "Ryan is now having some good sessions with the group.
"Obviously he is not allowed to sprint and go flat out.
"But he is looking like a footballer again, which we are all pleased about.
"He is very positive and it is a case of building up the strength in the hamstring and the damaged area.
"If he is back before the end of January we will be delighted."
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