SUNDERLAND midfielder David Meyler is hoping to make an eagerly-awaited return from injury in next week's reserves game with Gateshead.

Meyler has suffered a succession of injuries since breaking into the Black Cats' first team in December 2009.

He suffered serious cruciate ligament damage in the penultimate game of the 2009-10 season, an injury that sidelined him for almost seven months.

He returned last December, but made just five appearances before suffering another serious knee injury in January's 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa.

The Irishman has not played since, but having returned to light training in the last few days, has been pencilled in for a reserve-team outing in a practice match with Gateshead.

Speaking on the social networking site Twitter, Meyler said: "Can't wait to play my first game next Wednesday against Gateshead. Been way to (sic) long so excited."

Meyler spent a large chunk of the summer in the United States working with Vermont-based strength and conditioning coach Bill Knowles.

The injury specialist, who helped nurse Middlesbrough skipper Matthew Bates back to full fitness after a string of cruciate problems, has helped rebuild the strength in Meyler's knee.

The 22-year-old's return would be a major fillip to manager Steve Bruce, who has seen his side fail to win any of their opening four league matches this season.

Bruce's side return to action against Stoke City on Sunday looking to claim only a second home success since January 1.

The Potters, who were in Europa League action last night against Dynamo Kiev, are sure to provide a stern physical examination in two days time, and Bruce admits his players will have to be ready for whatever is thrown at them.

"If we don't stand up to them physically we will get turned over," said the Black Cats boss.

"We must deal with set-pieces, otherwise we're in for a tough afternoon.

"The game down there last year was arguably the turning point of our season. We were 2-1 up with seven minutes to play and let it slip. We know we're capable of getting a result. It will be a big challenge."