Mohammed Salisu hoping for more minutes after Monaco return

Mohammed Salisu is hoping to build on his long-awaited return to competitive football after making his first appearance of the season for AS Monaco on Friday.The Ghanaian defender came on in the 90+1st minute of Monacos 2-1 victory over Lens, bringing an end to a 258-day absence caused by a severe anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.Salisu had suffered the injury in January and subsequently missed the majority of the calendar year, including Ghanas 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.His brief appearance against Lens represented the latest stage of his recovery, with the 27-year-old eager to increase his involvement as he works towards full match fitness.Salisu admitted that even his short cameo represented a significant milestone after spending several months recovering from the injury.An amazing feeling. It's been a long time and it's been a hard time. I think I'm happy to be back, and I hope I'll get more minutes.Honestly, it's a big step for me. Even to get a little bit of minutes to play, it's an amazing feeling, he said.The centre-back will now hope to gradually earn more minutes as Monaco continue their season across domestic and European competitions.His return could also provide a boost to Ghana, with the Black Stars set to embark on their next international assignments.Salisu brings experience from the highest level and has previously established himself as an important defensive option for the national team.