The 30-year old Brazilian was praised by the Wanderers boss having scored twice and hit the crossbar in his first full appearance for the club during the 3-1 win over the Saddlers and Allardyce seemed pleased with the contribution made by the former Sporting Lisbon ace Jardel.
"Mario did what we bought him for and scored two goals. It is five-and-a-half months since he last played a full game and I think it showed that he has still got a bit to go.
"But he has done a magnificent job on himself in training and the only way for him now is up."