Royals striker Noel Hunt has revealed he's been suffering from an ongoing knee problem - but is now fully fit after sitting out three games and allowing the injury to subside.

Noel began to be hampered by the injury around December, but played on with the problem until finally succumbing last month and completely sitting out three matches.

He said, "I had a nice little rest because of my knee and thankfully it has all cleared up now. I had a chronic problem that was ongoing for a year, it just got worse and worse and I ended up having to stop playing for a little while.

"It definitely affected my form for a few months and was the main reason I couldn't do what I am good at. I was just trying to get through games, but now I want to play and want to be as busy as I can out on the pitch again.

"I know I can run around now, tackle and jump but before I had to choose what I could do and try to do things off my weaker foot. But now it's not in the back of my head and it is happy days.I can chase and harry and just annoy people!

"The gaffer was good enough to say 'get it sorted and then get yourself back in the fold' and now it is totally fine. I thought it might have kept me out until the end of the season, but I have worked hard in the gym every day.

"I started the season well, but behind the scenes I was struggling. I didn't want to stop playing, but the manager made a decision and I have worked on getting right.

"I feel I have a big part to play now - so does everyone. The season is far from over and for me I have a real belief I can come back in and give something to the team.

"I know what I can do and I have confidence in my ability. That's all that matters to me and I am going to prove it."

Noel made a positive impact as a substitute at Coventry on Saturday, and will be hoping to start when we face Sheffield United this Good Friday, kick off 5:30pm.

Tickets for Friday's game are on general sale now to all Member Card holders. Telephone 0844 249 1871, use the online ticketing service or visit in person.