MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota has reinstated Mike Sherels as linebackers coach, following a two-month medical leave for a life-threatening intestinal illness that required multiple surgeries.

Sherels returned to the sideline on Saturday as the Gophers hosted rival Iowa. Sherels was first hospitalized in early August and in critical condition, until returning home and gradually rejoining the program on a limited basis. Keith Jordan, a special teams assistant, served as acting linebackers coach during his absence.

Sherels is in his third season on the job. He played for the Gophers from 2003-07, serving as a captain his junior and senior years. He is the only player in program history to arrive as a walk-on and assume the captaincy for two seasons.