Jedinak, who scored the decisive hat-trick to clinch Australia's World Cup qualification, suffered the injury in Villa's 2-0 win over Ipswich on November 25.

Villa boss Steve Bruce initially said the 33-year-old may need an operation and face up to three months on the sidelines.

However, Jedinak's recovery is progressing well with Bruce providing an update.

"Jedinak has trained again with some physicality," Bruce said.

"He could make an entrance, which would be good to see."

FourFourTwo understands Villa are hopeful the Australian can return during the busy Christmas period of Championship fixtures.

Jedinak was making only his fifth appearance for Villa after a long-term groin issue when he sustained the shoulder injury.

The veteran has only made six appearances for the Villans this term, while he returned to the international scene with two influential 90-minute shifts against Honduras.

Australia's next international match isn't until March, ahead of the 2018 World Cup.