Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo has taken a significant step in her recovery from injury after returning to training with Canadian club AFC Toronto.

The 29-year-old striker had been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury during AFC Toronto's league encounter against Halifax early last month, forcing her to miss the club's last five league matches.

Her absence was also felt on the international stage, as she was unavailable for Nigeria's recent friendly matches against Senegal's Teranga Lionesses.

However, there is now positive news for both club and country, with Okoronkwo back in training and expected to be available for AFC Toronto's league clash against Montreal Roses at York Lions Stadium on Saturday.

The return comes as a major boost for AFC Toronto, given the influential role the Nigerian international played in the club's title-winning campaign last season. Her pace, creativity, and eye for goal have made her one of the team's most important attacking players.

For Nigeria, Okoronkwo's recovery will be equally encouraging as the Super Falcons continue preparations for upcoming international assignments. The striker has become an increasingly important figure in the national team's attacking setup, offering versatility across the front line and a consistent goal threat.

Timely Return for Club and Country

Injuries are often frustrating for players at the peak of their form, and Okoronkwo's absence came at a time when she was expected to play a prominent role for both AFC Toronto and the Super Falcons.

The encouraging aspect of her return is not just the fact that she is back on the training pitch, but that she appears to be recovering in time for crucial fixtures ahead. With major competitions and qualification campaigns on the horizon, Nigeria will need all of its key attacking players available and fit.

AFC Toronto supporters will also be eager to see her back in action. The club has had to navigate several matches without one of its most reliable performers, and her return could provide the spark needed to strengthen their campaign.

If she comes through training without setbacks and features against Montreal Roses this weekend, it could mark the beginning of an important comeback journey for one of Nigeria's most talented forwards.

For now, both AFC Toronto and Super Falcons fans will be hoping that the injury troubles are firmly behind her and that she can quickly rediscover the form that made her such a vital player last season.