David Moyes has described Seb Larsson’s return from injury as “incredible” but says he will not rush the Swede back into the action.

The midfielder is yet to feature this season after suffering a medial ligament injury in the summer and was originally not expected to return until the New Year.

However, Larsson has made significant strides in recent weeks and took part in first team training on Monday.

Moyes is currently struggling for experienced options in his midfield, with Lee Cattermole and Jan Kirchhoff among those on the sidelines but the Scot is keen not to rush the experienced Swede back prematurely.

Instead he will give him a chance to build his fitness with the under-23 side before his likely return to competitive action in time for the busy Festive period.

The boss admits he has been impressed by the 31-year-old’s determination in his comeback and is looking forward to having him available for the remainder of the Black Cats’ relegation fight. “Seb has dipped in and out a little bit but started full training on Monday,” said Moyes.

“I think Seb will need the best part of three to four weeks on football sessions and what not and hopefully we might get him a couple of Under-23 games in the process.

“Hopefully it is quicker. But he has done really well. “I don’t want to risk his injury too soon. It is an incredible return.”

Next up for Sunderland is Saturday’s trip to Bournemouth, a game they are 5.50 to win, with the draw 3.80 and the Cherries priced as the 1.62 favourites.