The Ghana Football Association is not ruling out a possible return of injured Abu Francis to the Black Stars squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Francis has made progress in his recovery, returning to the gym barely 25 days after suffering a horrific injury during November’s international break.

The 24-year-old fractured two bones after an awkward twist while attempting to block a shot in a friendly defeat to Japan.

Francis, who was stretchered off early in the second half, underwent surgery at Toyota Memorial Hospital.

"Normally, it depends on the kind of surgery that takes place,” GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum told JoySports.

"We were fortunate to get one of the best surgeons to operate on him, a very young Japanese doctor.

"He promised that Abu would be back very soon after the surgery.”

Ligue 1 side Toulouse FC had announced that Francis would likely miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

However, Francis’ early return to training offers some optimism in his race to be fit for the global showpiece.

"We have to wait for Abu to recover. We pray that he recovers on time and starts field work,” Henry added.

"He begins to get some playing time and once that happens, we will take a decision."

Ghana coach Otto Addo has until 1 June 2026 to announce his squad for the World Cup.