Manchester City striker Vivianne Miedema could return against Ipswich Town on Sunday after recovering from a long-term knee injury.
The 28-year-old Dutch international, the all-time leading scorer in the Women’s Super League, has been out of action since October 9 and has not played since she underwent surgery on her left knee.
City host third division side Ipswich in the fourth round of the Women’s FA Cup this weekend and boss Gareth Taylor said Miedema would feature in some capacity.
“We have Viv back, which is really positive,” Taylor said. “We’ll see her [against Ipswich] and this is really good.
“We know what a top player she is and what kind of influence she has on others. Just by being on the pitch, he really helps other players perform even better.
“She has this talent and gives so much time and space to other players, and she is valuable herself. It’s good to have her back.”
Since joining City in the summer, the Dutch international has scored two goals in five games in all competitions.
Taylor said Miedema’s minutes will be played upon her return, but having her back is a huge boost for a WSL squad that is still missing the likes of Alex Greenwood, Lauren Hemp and Khadija Shaw due to injuries.
“I was very impressed with Viv as a person and also as a player,” Taylor added.
“She’s one of the best I’ve ever worked with in the way she makes the game look so simple.
“Her appreciation and natural ability are second to none. I’m really excited for the second half of the season and I hope Viv stays as fit and ready as possible.
“It’s really exciting to know what kind of team we’ll have when we get our full quota back.
– She is becoming stronger with us thanks to the work she puts in off the pitch.
