Jonathan Kodjia is edging closer to a first-team return for Aston Villa, with the striker stepping up his return with an appearance in a friendly yesterday.

Due to the weekend’s international break, Villa are not in Sky Bet Championship action, but a midweek friendly took place yesterday at Bodymoor Heath, with Kodjia in action for the Villans.

Villa’s official Twitter account (@AVFCOfficial) have confirmed that the Ivorian striker completed 45 minutes in claret and blue, as he looks to shake off a long-term ankle problem that has plagued him since the end of the 2016/17 campaign.

Kodjia broke his ankle towards the end of last season, but suffered a setback shortly after returning, with Bruce unable to call on the striker since the Second City derby back in October.

Last season’s 19-goal striker is now edging closer to another first-team return following his appearance yesterday.

In Kodjia’s absence, Villa have moved into serious promotion contention and find themselves sitting fourth, with eight fixtures of the season remaining.

A seven-point gap has opened up between Villa and the top-two, with Bruce’s side suffering back-to-back defeats prior to the international break.

The Verdict

What Villa can’t afford to do is rush Kodjia back into action, as doing that before led to the striker suffering a setback.

Kodjia could be vital for Villa during the run-in, particularly if they find themselves in the play-offs and competing for promotion.

In the striker’s absence, Villa have done well, however, Kodjia is a natural goalscorer that Bruce will want available to him.

Aston Villa fans… Let us know your thoughts!