West Brom striker Ishmael targets New Year return

Ishmael Miller aims to have recovered from cruciate ligament damage for a return to the West Brom first-team in the New Year.

The 22-year-old striker has been out of action since December 2008.

"I feel good," he told the Baggies' official website.

"I saw a specialist on Wednesday and he was very, very pleased with me. Realistically I'll hopefully be back for the last few months of the season.

"I'm looking at January/February time. Anything quicker than that will be a blessing."

Miller has also thanked West Brom for their unwavering support during a difficult period in his career, with the former Manchester City frontman delighted to have recently signed a new five-year contract.

"I'm grateful to the club for the respect they've shown me," he added.

"They've put their confidence in me and the manager and chairman have been behind me 100 per cent.

"I'm just trying to come back and repay them. Everyone behind the scenes knows I'm looking great - and I was before.

"The way it went was a blip and when I'm back I'll be fine, and hopefully I'll be even better than I was before.

"I'll be mentally better. I've matured a lot over this past year.

"I didn't take football for granted in the past, but when you have to watch other people playing every week the hunger within you is frightening.

"I feel great, strong and I don't think I will lose that extra yard.

"I don't think my injury is going to take away any of my ability and I think I'll be mentally better and more focused."