Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen, on Wednesday returned to training, exactly 15 days after undergoing cheekbone surgery.

The news serves as a huge boost for Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr, ahead of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon next year as he is hopeful his most prolific striker will be fit in time for the competition.

The 22-year-old sustained multiple fractures to his cheekbone and eye socket after a clash of heads with Inter Milan defender Milan Skriniar in their 3-2 loss to the champions in the Italian Serie A on November 21.

Medical diagnostics after the surgery had revealed that the striker would be out for a duration of 90 days, a situation that had automatically ruled him out of the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon.

Napoli on their social media on Wednesday posted a picture and short video of the striker taking part in individual training.

According to reports in Italy, if the separate training goes well, the former LOSC Lille striker could get the green light to start with physical contact wearing a protective mask.

The striker’s situation also comes as a relief for manager, Luciano Spalletti, who has been managing a squad hit with injuries with star players Kalidou Kouliably, Zambo Anguissa, Lorenzo Insigne and Fabian Ruiz.

The Nigeria international has thanked the club medical staff and fans who reached out to him during his time out of action.

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“Thankful to God almighty, I sincerely appreciate those who reached out to me, God bless you and yours,” the former Sporting Charleroi strike wrote on social media.

“No time to dwell on past transgressions, looking forward to the greater things ahead.

“Special thanks to everyone associated with Napoli. I really appreciate you all. Special mention also to the medical staffs of Napoli and Gianpaolo Tartaro (the surgeon).”