Latics England striker Emile Heskey joined in with training this morning for the first time since fracturing his metatarsal injury two months ago and promptly declared: "It's great to be back!"

"It's my first day back with the lads this morning, and the first time I've had full contact," said Emile, "and it felt great to be back, really good.It's the first time in my career I've had a really serious injury and it has been extremely frustrating for me, especially with the way things have gone on the field."


SIBI-HESKI: Heskey Celebrates his goal v Sunderland

Hesk says he has to be careful not to try and rush himself back to action, however.

"I've got to take it one step at a time," he said, "I know that. I've been told I'm going to feel a few twinges now and again, and that it's going to take a while for everything to get back to normal again.

"For a start, I'm six weeks behind on fitness, and although I've been in everyday and keeping up my strength in the gym and in the pool, nothing's the same as being out there on the field with the players.


CAREFUL NOT TO RUSSIA BACK TO SOON:
Heskey in action against Russia at Wembley.

Heskey has a special word of praise for the medical staff at the club and for surgeon John Hodgkinson.

"The treatment I've received has been magnificent, from the moment I sustained the injury, to seeing the surgeon and through the rehabilitation process and that's made things a lot easier for me.

"It was really unlucky what happened, especially as I was doing really well at the time and it was a freak situation to happen.

"There have been quite a few changes too while I've been sidelined, with the manager and the way results have gone, so it's been doubly frustrating that I haven't been able to play a part.

"Now we'll see what happens next. I'm hoping to be available for the next game, but we will have to see how things progress over the next week or so."