Stuart Holden has returned to the training ground for Bolton as he works his way back from his long-term knee injury.
The US international suffered the injury last season in a challenge with Manchester United's Jonny Evans.
He made a brief comeback before suffering another setback in September. The midfielder is now undergoing rehab, according to boss Owen Coyle.
"He bounced in this morning and came in to see me. He is a terrific lad and loves being at the club and there is no doubt he has been sadly missed," said Coyle.
"It was important that he got back home and did a lot of his rehab with his national team but it is always nice when you have a player of that ilk back.
"The sooner we have him back the better it is for all concerned and I'm sure he'll give everyone a boost."
Bolton face fellow strugglers Blackburn on Tuesday night.
