Fulham forward Andy Johnson has set his sights on an October return following an injury-plagued 12 months.
Johnson was limited to just 13 appearances last season due to shoulder and groin problems, and he has been sidelined since undergoing knee surgery in February.
But, having suffered a slight setback last month, the former Everton and Crystal Palace striker is hoping to be back in the first-team frame in a matter of weeks.
Johnson told the Daily Mirror: “I’ve done everything I can to make sure I haven’t lost any speed.
“I’ve worked on my glutes, my hamstrings and my core strength – everything that gives me pace. Of course, we’ll see when I get out there, but I’m confident I can be as fast as I’ve ever been.
“If it’s the end of September, October, or whenever, that’s when it is, but I can see the light now.”
Johnson’s return will be a major boost to Cottagers manager Mark Hughes after star striker Bobby Zamora suffered a broken leg last weekend.