Wilfred Ndidi made a return to the pitch in Leicester City's 1-0 away win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday night.
The Super Eagles midfielder had been sidelined for over two months with a muscular injury and even missed the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2024).
After replacing Yunus Akgün in the 72nd minute, the 27-year-old received a rousing welcome from the Leicester City travelling fans.
Ndidi was cautioned in the 90th minute. The midfielder last appeared for Enzo Maresca’s side in the 2-0 win at Cardiff City on December 29, 2023.
The initial prognosis indicated a three-month layoff, but he has made an earlier-than-anticipated return to action. During his recovery period, spanning 67 days, he missed 13 consecutive games across all competitions.
Wilfred Ndidi's return gets Leicester back to winning ways
Before their triumph over Sunderland, The Foxes had suffered three consecutive defeats in the Championship, falling to Middlesbrough, Leeds United, and Queens Park Rangers.
Leicester's most recent victory before last night's match was a 2-0 win against Sheffield Wednesday on February 13, 2024.
Despite these setbacks, Leicester City remain atop the Championship table with 81 points after playing 36 games, leading second-placed Ipswich Town by three points and third-placed Leeds United by five. They are in prime position to secure promotion to the Premier League.
Wilfred Ndidi's return from injury injects renewed energy into the squad, offering a crucial boost as they strive to maintain their position at the top of the table and secure promotion.
His presence on the pitch not only strengthens the team defensively but also provides leadership and stability in midfield, essential qualities for success in the demanding Championship campaign.
Super Eagles to benefit from Ndidi's injury return
Ndidi's return from injury will undoubtedly be welcomed by fans of the Super Eagles and neutrals alike, as his absence was keenly felt during the last AFCON tournament.
His availability will undoubtedly serve as a morale-booster for the Super Eagles as they prepare for the upcoming double-header 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin.
Since his debut for the Super Eagles in 2018 against Burundi, Ndidi has accumulated 54 appearances for the three-time AFCON champions but has yet to find the back of the net.
