Ghana’s opening 2018 World Cup qualifier against Comoros Islands has received a massive boost with the return of captain Asamoah Gyan from injury.

The Black Stars striker returned from an over a month injury layoff to play for Shanghai SIPG in their 2-2 draw with Shijiazhuang Yongchang on Saturday.

Gyan came on in the 70th minute to get vital minutes under his belt as he whips himself back to optimum level ahead of Ghana’s opening 2018 World Cup qualifier in November.

The former Sunderland ace had suffered a hamstring injury back in September and failed to make a recovery in time to join the Black Stars for last week’s international friendly against Canada.

His return to first team action in Saturday’s disappointing home draw at Shanghai SIPG has ignited optimism that the lethal striker will indeed be fit and sharp enough by the time Ghana faces Comoros Islands next month.

Gyan remains one of the most influential players in Avram Grant’s team which gives much credence to the massive relief of Ghanaians at the news of his return.

The Black Stars will face Comoros Islands in a two-legged tie for a place in the group phase of the qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup which will be hosted in Russia.