The chances of Socceroos veteran Jason Culina making a playing comeback with Sydney FC have edged closer, with the Sky Blues officially clearing the way for him to train fully with the first team as he continues his comeback from a career-threatening knee injury.

While no timeline for a possible return to the professional ranks has been outlined - indications are he's unlikely to be be ready to play competitively before Christmas - Culina will effectively be treated as a first team squad member by the Sky Blues as he works his way back to fitness alongside the club's other injured players, Brett Emerton and Pascal Bosschaart.

Jason Culina Credit:Jonathan Carroll

Culina has been working one-one-one with Sydney FC's physio Stan Ivancic for the last couple of months, but will now be able to join full training when he's ready. While no contract has been offered, the Sky Blues are clearly in the box seat to secure Culina's signature.

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Sydney FC football director Gary Cole said: "Jason has had a terrible injury, he is a great guy and has been a wonderful servant of the Socceroos. As such we want to assist him to get back playing football as soon as possible. Jason is very happy with this position and is looking forward to regaining full fitness. Nothing has been discussed further than that."

However Culina's agent, Leo Karis, added: "It's only natural that I will have a serious conversation with Sydney FC when Jason fully recovers, but there is no obligation on either party to enter into an agreement. However we clearly thank Sydney FC for their support."