Bolton Wanderers manager Ian Evatt has revealed that Declan John and Harry Brockbank have stepped up their recovery from their respective issues by returning to training.
Meanwhile, Amadou Bakayoko is also making progress as he looks to overcome a calf problem that he sustained during the club's victory over Lincoln City last month.
John has failed to feature for Bolton in their last three league games due to illness whilst Brockbank has only made two appearances for the club in all competitions this season.
The Trotters will be looking to deliver a response to their recent defeat to Rotherham United when they head to the Stadium of Light tomorrow to face Sunderland.
Currently eighth in League One, Bolton could move above the likes of AFC Wimbledon and Wycombe Wanderers in the standings if they beat the Black Cats tomorrow.
Making reference to Bakayoko, John and Brockbank ahead of this fixture, Evatt has admitted that they are getting closer to a return to action.
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News about the trio, the Bolton boss said: "Declan is back training fully, he has come through fine.
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"Harry is back training again too.
"Baka's [Bakayoko] edging closer.
"He's come through a week of pitch work so won't be too much longer either, so things are looking positive."
The Verdict
This is an encouraging update for Bolton as Evatt will be looking to turn to this particular trio for inspiration when they are fit enough to feature.
Whilst John and Brockbank will be able to provide cover in defence, Bakayoko will be aiming to feature regularly for the Trotters this season following his summer switch.
Having made a bright start to his spell at the club by providing two direct goal contributions in three league appearances, it wouldn't be at all surprising if the forward ends up becoming a key player for the club.
Providing that Bolton are able to produce a positive performance against Sunderland on Saturday, they could use the confidence gained from this showdown to push on in the third-tier.