Sunderland Football Club News

• Nickname:Black Cats
• Founded:1879
• Manager:Martin O'Neill

• Ground:Stadium of light
• Capacity:48,353

Elliott boost for Black Cats

23 Mar 2007 - 13:28:16

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Sunderland have received an injury boost with the news that Stephen Elliott has returned to training following ankle surgery.

The Republic of Ireland striker has been sidelined since January but is now closing in on a return to the first team, to the delight of Black Cats boss Roy Keane.

"Having lads back from injury lifts the other players," Keane told the club's official website.

"It's brilliant. It's good for any player who has had an injury to get out on the training pitch - I'm sure they've been frustrated.

"To see lads back is a great boost for us ahead of what will be an important couple of months."

Elliott has netted five times in 23 appearances this season.

Meanwhile, winger Andy Welsh has completed a free transfer move to Toronto FC after failing to make his mark under Keane.