Razak Boukari has returned to training with Wolverhampton Wanderers after a series of injury problems that have seen him not feature in two-and-a-half years.
The 27-year-old last played for Wolves in September 2012, spending most of last season on loan with Sochaux and making 10 appearances for the French side.
Wolves boss Kenny Jackett confirmed his return to training, but suggested that it would be a while before he was seen in competitive action.
"With the way things have gone for him he'll need a fair bit of training before he plays," Jackett told the club website.
"He'll be back in training and we'll really hope he can crack it because he's a smashing lad, a very good personality."
Jackett said that he would be open to the idea of Boukari playing a part in Wolves' playoff chase this season, but doesn't necessarily expect him to feature.
"We will give him every encouragement to [play this season] and we sincerely hope he does," he added.
"Realistically speaking to expect him to play in the Championship this season is not something we are planning. If it happens it will be an added bonus."
Togolese international Boukari joined Wolves from Rennes in the summer of 2012.
Pascal Lemesre
