'Teddy' Johnson targets RSPL return this week

Former national player and Tivoli Gardens ace Jermaine 'Teddy' Johnson is looking to make his return to the Red Stripe Premier League (RSPL) this week after completing surgery on his right knee at the end of last season.

The Tivoli Gardens striker watched his team beat Portmore 1-0 at the Spanish Town Prison Oval on Sunday, a result that moved them to the top of the league and he told STAR Sports that he was healthy enough to be in the squad on Sunday but decided to delay his return a bit longer.

However, Johnson is confident he will return to action tomorrow against Humble Lion or Monday night's feature game against Waterhouse next week.

"I did it (surgery) about two-and-a-half months now and it's coming on really well, but I still don't get back my normal walking as how I want it, but it's coming on," Johnson said.

"I started training last week and everything is coming on right. They (doctors) gave me two-and-a-half months before I started back training and I have gone past that, so I was told that I can start training again. So it is for me to take my time and do what I am doing," he said.

STRONG ENOUGH

The 38-year-old attacker said he is enjoying his workouts although most of his sessions are being done in the gym. The former Bolton Wanderers, Oldham Athletic, Bradford City, and Sheffield Wednesday player has also featured in squad games and says he feels strong enough to start playing competitively again.

"I do mostly gym work, like leg press and those exercises. I also play football with the team, 11 v 11, and it's coming on. I was supposed to be in the team today (Sunday), but I decided that it (knee) wasn't right. Hopefully, by next week I am good to be in the team.

"Sometimes after training I feel a little pain, but it's coming on good. So, hopefully, everything is right for me for Wednesday or Monday," he said.