Sunderland striker Fraizer Campbell has spent 17 months on the sidelines and does not intend to hinder his recovery by rushing things. The 24-year-old has been out of action since August 2010 after suffering a second knee injury.
The former Manchester United player told the club's official website:
"I have been training for a while and the big thing is that these things take time. As much as I want to be back playing, I know everyone's got to be talking to each other to make sure the knee is sound.
"I'm almost having to hold myself back. This is one of the worst parts - those final few weeks just seem to drag, but I know I have to take it steady."
He added: "The training-ground matches have helped me, I haven't felt sluggish or anything.
"But rushing things results in niggles. When I come back I want to be at my best, I don't want to be half-hearted." "It's always good to get a goal, but the most important thing is making sure the knee is all right.
