Ghana winger Ernest Nuamah has taken an important step on his road back to full fitness after returning to ball work as part of his recovery from a serious knee injury.

The Lyon wide man has been sidelined for nine months after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, a setback that brought his season and international ambitions to a sudden halt. Now, images and updates from France suggest the 20-year-old is finally back on the grass, combining gym sessions with light ball exercises.

For Nuamah, the moment marks a significant psychological and physical milestone after months of rehabilitation.

The timing could prove crucial. With the hard work of recovery well underway, Nuamah now has a window to rebuild match fitness and potentially feature for Lyon later in the season. His return would also be a welcome boost for Ghana, with international friendlies against Austria and Germany scheduled for March.

The Black Stars have already seen one long-term absentee, Daniel Kofi Kyereh, make his way back from injury, and there is growing hope that Nuamah could soon follow a similar path.

While no firm return date has been set, the focus remains on a careful and complete recovery, ensuring the winger avoids any setbacks after such a lengthy absence.

Ghana fans will also be watching closely as fellow internationals Mohammed Salisu and Tariq Lamptey continue their own recoveries from injury.

For now, though, Nuamah’s return to ball work offers a moment of encouragement, a reminder that after months of frustration and patience, the road back to competitive football is finally taking shape.