Super Eagles left-back Zaidu Sanusi is set to make his much-anticipated return to first-team action after a long injury lay-off.
The 27-year-old defender has been included in FC Porto’s squad for their crucial Europa League clash against Belgian side Anderlecht.
Sanusi has been on the mend, having been sidelined since February with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
After months of rehabilitation, he returned to action in October, but has been training with Porto's B team to regain full fitness.
Now, Porto coach Vitor Bruno has deemed him fit enough to rejoin the senior squad, signalling a significant step in the defender's comeback.
Sanusi: Super Eagles man excited by Porto return
“Yes, I am back and can’t wait to get involved. Injury isn’t a good thing, but Allah willed it so—it’s part of football, but that is behind me,” Sanusi told Afrik-Foot.
“I just want to get back playing and helping my team. That is my focus.”
Sanusi, who joined Porto from Santa Clara, has been an essential part of the squad since his arrival, contributing seven goals and one assist during his time at the club.
However, his absence has been felt in a season where Porto have struggled to maintain consistency.
They are also second on the Portuguese top flight table with 27 points from 11 games, six less than their perennial rivals Sporting Lisbon.
Thursday’s match against Anderlecht offers a critical opportunity to revive their campaign.
Sanusi, who last played for Nigeria at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, will also be eager to prove his fitness and return to national team contention after 9 months months away from club and international football.
