Haji Return "Close"

Striker Seeking First Action Since November Injury

Coventry City's leading scorer Haji Wright is on the verge of making his long-awaited return to action after a three-and-a-half-month layoff due to an ankle injury. The U.S. international, who hasn't featured since November, has returned to full training and could be in contention for this weekend's Championship clash with Preston North End at the CBS Arena.

Manager Frank Lampard, who has not worked with Wright since taking charge of the Sky Blues, will decide on the striker's availability after today's training session. "He's going well, and he's certainly turned his corner now," Lampard said. "Now it's about getting his match fitness up so he's ready to be able to contribute on the pitch because I know he's an important player."

Wright's potential return comes at an opportune time for Coventry, which is riding a wave of momentum with six wins from its last seven matches. His availability, along with the recent return of Ephron Mason-Clark and the signing of Jamie Paterson, would significantly boost Lampard's attacking options as the Sky Blues push for promotion.

"We're getting back to a place where we have competition for places," Lampard explained. "You need, in this physical league, in-game chances to impact games. I'm not going to complain about having it, it's a really positive thing, and it gives me options in different ways because of the adaptability of Haji, Ephron and Pato."

While Wright is close to making his comeback, Lampard emphasized that he won't rush the striker back into action, suggesting his return could be delayed until next week if necessary. The manager will base his decision on how Wright responds to today's final training session and his overall match fitness levels.