Alex Scott injury boost as Rose reveals recovery is ahead of expectations

Alex Scott could return sooner than initially feared after Marco Rose revealed an encouraging scan on the Bournemouth midfielder’s thigh injury.

The England international returned to his club for assessment earlier this month, with the FA confirming his withdrawalbefore the Nations League match against Czechia.

Alex Scott injury recovery brings Bournemouth encouragement

An MRI scan on Wednesday showed positive signs in Scott’s recovery.

“His progression and healing is in a good way, better than we expected,” Rose said, in comments reported by Sky Sports.

That offers encouragement after initial reports suggested Scott could face up to two months out. He subsequently missed Bournemouth’s 5–1 defeat at Chelsea.

Could Scott return against Sunderland?

Rose cautioned that the improvement does not mean Scott is ready for Sunday’s meeting with Sunderland or next week’s Europa League game against AC Milan.

The midfielder can progress his rehabilitation towards work on the pitch, with his response determining the next steps. No return date has been confirmed.

Bournemouth host Sunderland at 2pm UK time on Sunday after beating Sturm Graz 3–0 on their first home European night.

Evanilson, Rayan and Álvaro Rodríguez scored as the Cherries made it two wins from two in the Europa League.

Scott’s recovery also comes amid reports linking him with a possible January departure, although no transfer has been agreed.