Former Watford, Derby County and Burnley striker Matej Vydra is ‘very close’ to a return to football.

The 44-cap Czech international sustained a serious injury playing for Burnley at the back end of last season as the Clarets were fighting for their Premier League survival, rupturing his cruciate ligament in a win over one of his former sides, Watford.

The 30-year-old’s contract at Turf Moor expired in the summer, and naturally, given his injury, Vydra did not join another team.

That could all be set to change soon, though, with the player himself posting the following message on social media recently.

On Instagram, Vydra wrote: “After today’s visit with my surgeon Andy Williams, I am very close to a return to football.

“Andy was very happy with my progress since my procedure, thanks to Andy and Phil @xiv_pom Physio from Burnley FC for their work!

“ I look forward to seeing you soon 💪🏻.”

Vydra’s potential return will surely have Championship clubs on high alert given the talent he possesses and the fact he is a free agent.

The 30-year-old has proven prolific in the second-tier in the past, netting 65 goals and registering 22 assists in 187 previous Championship appearances.

The Verdict

This is absolutely brilliant news for Matej Vydra.

Had it not been for the injury he suffered, you can’t help but feel Burnley may have kept him on this summer as we know what an asset he can be at Championship level.

That being said, it would be surprising to see the player struggle to find a new club if indeed he is nearing fitness.

There are certainly plenty of clubs in the Championship that could do with the firepower and attacking threat that he possesses.