Wigan winger Ryo Miyaichi, who is on loan from Arsenal, is nearing full fitness after making his first appearance since November in an outing for the club's Under-21 team on Monday afternoon.
The Japanese wide man played 45 minutes as the Latics fell to a 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest in the Professional Development League Two clash.
Miyaichi has been limited to just six first-team appearances during his spell at the club on loan from Arsenal, most recently suffering with a groin complaint which has sidelined him for two months.
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez is sure to welcome this latest injury boost with his side sitting above 18th-placed Aston Villa by virtue of goal difference and just 10 games remaining.
Arsenal loanee Miyaichi steps up return from injury with Wigan Under-21s outing
