Egypt and West Bromwich defender Ahmed Hegazi says he is optimistic about his return from injury, as his predicted recovery period has been shortened and he participated in the team's training this week, according to West Bromwich's official website.

"I have come back a little bit quicker than expected which is good for me. The team is doing well and we just need to keep this momentum going," Hegazi said in remarks published on the English Football League Championship club's website on Thursday.

Ahly's former solid defender underwent surgery to resolve an ankle problem, just after participating with the Egyptian national team in the 2019 AFCON where the Pharaohs were eliminated from the round of 16.

"I'm very happy to be back in training and the ankle is feeling fine. There is no date for a return to playing yet but we will see how I progress from here," the 28-year-old defender added.

Hegazi has been one of West Brom's key players since joining from Egyptian giants Ahly in the summer of 2017.

He remained with the club following their relegation from the Premier League to the second tier last year and helped them push for a boost back to the top flight, only to falter in the playoff after a defeat in May by Aston Villa.

Hegazi made 43 appearances in all competitions last season, scoring once and providing two assists.

(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)