Thompson steps up recovery

Thompson has received good news about his knee injury

Blackburn's David Thompson has been given permission to start strengthening work in the gym after knee surgery.

Thompson made a three-day visit to the clinic of renowned knee specialist Richard Steadman in Colorado and is hopeful about his recovery.

He could be running in six weeks and be training ahead of the new season.

"The signs are really positive," he told the Blackburn Telegraph. "I'm encouraged by what the specialist said this time."

Thompson had the operation in the States three months ago and hopes it will finally cure the knee injury which has dogged his career for the last 12 months.

He first underwent surgery in January 2003 .

He added: "This is the first time I have seen my knee looking this good since the first few months after I signed - there is no sign of the swelling at all.

"Hopefully, my problems are behind me now and it's just a question of building up my fitness.

"The last year has been so frustrating - I've forgotten what it's like to kick a ball."