Sunderland boss Steve Bruce will ease Craig Gordon back
Gordon suffered a fractured arm against Tottenham in November 2009
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce says he will not rush Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon back into action as he recovers from surgery on his arm and a hernia.
"Craig is back training. He had a hernia operation three weeks ago, so he will be fine in a week's time," Bruce told the club's website.
"I don't think I'll play him at Munster (Tuesday) or Darlington (Saturday).
Bruce said Gordon is likely to make his return against Brighton in the first of three pre-season matches in Portugal.
The Black Cats boss can however welcome back midfielder Andy Reid for pre-season after he recovered from injury.
The 27-year-old Republic of Ireland international was in sparkling form in the early part of last season but was dogged by a calf injury after Christmas.
He played only five times in 2010 and had an operation on his calf in March, but Bruce is eager to see Reid in action on the club's pre-season training camp in Portugal.
"Andy will come with us. He's only played three games since Christmas, which is quite incredible," Bruce explained.
"It's an important time for him. He's had one or two injuries - now let's hope he's over it and gives himself the best possible chance."
Only midfielder David Meyler, who suffered a cruciate knee-ligament injury against Manchester United in the Black Cats' final home game of last season, remains on the long-term casualty list.
Bruce said: "David is progressing well with his rehab. He's on course, but it's a long, hard road back for him."
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