[ad_pod ]

Swansea City were handed a huge boost on Monday with key midfielder Tom Carroll returning to first-team training following a spell on the sidelines.

Carroll has not featured for Swansea since October, but has taken a huge step in his recovery by returning to training with the Championship club.

What's the latest?

The 26-year-old has not turned out for Swansea since their 3-1 home win over Blackburn Rovers on October 23.

Pl>ymaker FC's Thogden was at the crucial relegation 6-pointer between Bolton and Rotherham. Check out the video below...

Niggling hip and groin problems have seen Carroll miss a lot of football, but according to a statement on Swansea's official website, the midfielder 'played a full part' in Monday's training session alongside his teammates.

The former Tottenham Hotspur youngster played in all but one of Swansea's 38 Premier League matches last season, but could not prevent the Welsh outfit from being relegated.

There is no question that the Swans have missed Carroll's quality in the middle of the park this term and his return to fitness will be a huge boost for the club.

Swansea host Sheffield United in the Championship this weekend and whilst Carroll is unlikely to take part, he is now closing on a return to action.

How have Swansea performed without him?

In Carroll's absence, Swansea have played 13 Championship matches. Graham Potter's side have won five of those fixtures, losing six and drawing two.

The Swans have been inconsistent in the second tier this season, with 10 wins, seven draws and 10 defeats bringing them 37 points from their 27 matches.

They sit 13th in the table, but are only six points off the top six and could yet challenge for a playoff position over the next few months.

Few players in the Swansea squad move the ball as well as Carroll, whilst his versatility will be key over the next few months.

The 5ft 10in ace's return to fitness and a couple of incomings would make for a successful January as Swansea prepare to end the month with matches against Sheffield United, Gillingham and Birmingham City.