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Kyle Shanahan 'optimistic' Reuben Foster will return against Cowboys

Linebacker Reuben Foster is back at 49ers practice this week after being close to returning against Washington. All signs are pointing to returning against the Cowboys Sunday.

It would be his first action since the season opener when he suffered a high ankle sprain that’s sidelined him for the last five weeks.

“I want to get out there as bad as you all want me to get out there,” Foster told reporters.

Coach Kyle Shanahan said beforehand he was optimistic about getting Foster back after deciding two days before the loss in Washington that he wasn’t going to have the promising rookie.

“I do expect him to (play Sunday). But, I guess I should use the words, ‘I’m optimistic,’ maybe not ‘expect.’ I’m being more optimistic,” Shanahan said. “I was hoping last week, definitely wasn’t as optimistic last week.

“But you never know. It’s a high ankle sprain. You don’t know how those act. I’m just really hoping he can get three good days of practice in and if he does, I feel pretty confident he’ll be out there.”

Foster will take over the MIKE linebacker role vacated by NaVorro Bowman, who was released Friday. Bowman on Monday signed with the Raiders and may be in uniform when Oakland hosts the Chiefs on Thursday.

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