Balogun's Triumphant Return: Hat Trick After Shoulder Surgery

Monaco's Folarin Balogun returned to play post-surgery, scoring a hat trick in a friendly against Brighton's U-23, after shoulder complications. His fitness for the upcoming French League match against Nice remains uncertain. Previously, Balogun was sidelined post-surgery due to a hit against Marseille.

Folarin Balogun, the striking force of Monaco, has made a remarkable return to action after undergoing shoulder surgery. Following his recovery, Balogun took the field on Tuesday with the club's reserve team and against Brighton's Under-23 side, he notably scored a hat trick in the first half.

Despite this impressive performance, the American international's availability for Saturday's French league match against rivals Nice remains undecided. Balogun's shoulder surgery occurred in December after he aggravated a dislocation during a French league clash with Marseille, a hit that prompted his decision to seek surgical intervention.

This comeback marks Balogun's first match of the year, as he had been side-lined for nearly two months before regaining competitiveness in late November. Monaco fans and officials alike now await confirmation of his readiness for the upcoming local derby.

(With inputs from agencies.)