Scott Wright could return to first-team action with Aberdeen in April after coming through their winter training camp unscathed.
The winger, who damaged knee ligaments in September, had been thought to be done for the season but was taken out to the United Arab Emirates to continue his rehabilitation.
Manager Derek McInnes was pleased with the work Wright was able to put in during their six days away. During the game against Al Wehdat on Monday night, Wright did fitness work on the side of the pitch.
The Balmedie-born 22-year-old was injured in training four months ago, having made three league appearances and scored in the Europa League against Chikhura Sachkhere. However, his progress is such that his season may not be over yet.
McInnes said: “He’s the only injured player we brought with us as he can do a fair amount of work on the pitch. He’s moving well – he’s nnot kicking a ball yet but getting his running pattern right and getting confidence back after the surgery.
“He’s on schedule. Like most of the boys these days, there’s so much awareness of what they need to do and he’s attacked the work brilliantly. There’s been no hiccups on the way – sometimes pushing it too soon can delay the rehab. He’s never had a day where he can’t go do the next thing.
“He should be alright for April, although I’m not sure when.”
The only other player on the trip to miss out in their final friendly game was Jon Gallagher, but he should be fit for Saturday’s Scottish Cup tie against Dumbarton.
McInnes added: “He’s OK – he could have played at a push. If the Dumbarton game was last night he would have played. He rolled his ankle in training on Friday in the afternoon session and we made a decision not to play him.
“The reason he didn’t play was that if he’d taken another impact (on the ankle) it could have upset him enough to be out for Saturday. He’ll be OK for training on Thursday.”
The Dons’ search for an elusive Scottish Cup – this year is the 30th anniversary of their last triumph in the competition – starts against Jim Duffy’s side at the weekend.