The England international has returned to training and Stoke City boss Mark Hughes is confident of securing a return date for the goalkeeper.
Stoke City’s Jack Butland
Stoke City goalkeeper Jack Butland has returned to training for the first time since ankle surgery, manager Mark Hughes stated in his press conference ahead of the Potters’ fixture against Manchester City, as published by Sky Sports.
Butland initially suffered a fractured ankle back in March during England’s 3-2 friendly victory over Germany, but has not featured since. The goalkeeper was expected to be part of Roy Hodgson’s Three Lions squad for the 2016 European Championships before his injury.
England’s Jack Butland during the national anthem before the game
Hughes is quoted by Sky Sports stating that whilst the 23-year-old was originally thought to be have been fit for the beginning of the season, he had to undergo further surgery to repair some scar tissue damage. But the Welshman is confident that the issue has been sorted.
“He was out on the pitch yesterday for the first time. Light movements but we’re encouraged that the issue has been addressed.” The Stoke boss told Sky Sports. “He had a procedure which has loosened ligaments in the ankle, which were a bit sticky for want of a better word.
Stoke City’s Jack Butland in action
“We’re hopeful we can keep him on the grass. Hopefully we can get through this period and he can progress very quickly. It’s difficult for him, he’s a big personality but he’s very focused. Hopefully now we can see the return date coming up shortly.”
Butland joined Stoke in 2013 from Birmingham City and has made 37 appearances for the Potters in the Premier League after loan spells with Barnsley, Leeds United and Derby County.
Stoke manager Mark Hughes
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