Kevin Doyle came through his first training session today but was warned he cannot expect to walk straight back into the Wolves team.

The fit-again striker declared yesterday he is ready to return this Saturday at Sunderland after six weeks out with torn medial ligaments in his left knee – and today completed his first full training session.

But such has been the form of 11-goal Steven Fletcher and Stephen Ward up front that there is no guarantee the £6.5m forward will immediately reclaim his place.

“He’s training – he trained today and was fine,” said boss Mick McCarthy this afternoon.

“It’s a huge boost to have him back for us. Doyle will have been out for seven weeks on Saturday and it’s great to have him back.

“But Fletcher and Ward have been fantastic. I thought the pair of them were awesome against Albion on Sunday and I just wish Wardy had scored.

“He certainly couldn’t have done any more, having worked it for himself, it was a terrific effort.”

McCarthy expressed caution when he was asked whether Doyle would start in the lunch-time clash at the Stadium of Light.

“Bearing in mind Kevin has only trained for the first time today, let’s see how he is tomorrow,” he said.

Doyle is a lucky talisman against Sunderland, having scored in both games against them last season.

But the 27-year-old admits he is hoping he doesn’t have to play a further part in the club’s survival bid.

“It would be nice if I could be involved this weekend even if it’s coming off the bench,” he said. “I’ve said all along it would be great if I’m actually not needed.”