Sunderland news: David Moyes confirms forward's long-awaited return

The Black Cats manager, speaking at his pre-match press conference at the Academy of Light, said the Italian forward is likely to be in his squad for tomorrow's visit to Swansea.

The 25-year-old has been out since the end of August with a thigh injury picked up in the 1-1 draw with Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium.

A starting spot at the Liberty Stadium is unlikely, although a place on the bench in Wales has been penciled in.

Moyes said: "Fabio is just about ready to be involved after 1 week in training."

Given that Duncan Watmore was ruled out for the rest of the campaign with a cruciate knee ligament injury earlier this week, Borini’s return is timely.

On the loss of the England Under-21 man, Moyes said: "Losing Duncan is really bad news for us and terrible news for the boy because he's been doing so well.

"When the swelling is down he will have his operation and hopefully we can get him back as soon as possible."

While Borini could make his comeback this week, Moyes admits he has been delighted by the return to action of both Jan Kirchhoff and Seb Larsson.

"Kirchhoff and Larsson came back last week and played very well," he said.

"Seb Larsson has always been known for his quality on the ball and from set pieces, so it's good to have him back."

While the form of top scorer Jermain Defoe has not gone unnoticed this campaign, with his eight goals this season one of the catalysts to Sunderland's recent revival, his strike partner has come in for particular praise from Moyes.

Summer signing Victor Anichebe has done better than many expected at the Stadium of Light, according to Moyes.

But his achievements have come as no shock to the manager, who managed the Nigerian international forward at Everton.

"I think Victor Anicheve coming in has exceeded many expectations, but I always believed he had a lot more to offer," said the gaffer.

"Defoe is also in a real purple patch. He's fit, he's sharp and I hope he keeps scoring goals."

While Moyes' main focus is on his own side, the Scot is wary of the threat posed by the opposition, despite City propping up the Premier League table in 20th.

"Swansea have shown they can score goals - five against Palace - but they've also shown they can concede.

"They have been a really good team for many years. I still look at them and think they have a very good squad.

"(Gylfi) Sigurdsson, (Jack) Cork and (Leroy) Fer are very good midfield players. At home they will want to get them on the ball.

"The key is to win the game tomorrow.

"We want to build on what we've done in recent weeks. We have a lot of belief right now.

"Between now and the end of the season we have to keep winning games if we want to progress."