Royals striker Noel Hunt is closer to a return to action after a long spell out with a foot injury.

The frontman has been sidelined since our home with Barnsley at the tail end of last season, but he is soon about to return to full training.

He said, "I'm a couple of weeks ahead of schedule, so I'm pretty happy with that.

"I wasn't supposed to be running until this week, but I was running last week in training and the gaffer has been involving me, which has been great. I just can't wait till the start of the season.

"I've certainly had a lot to think about over the last couple of months, I've been out for nearly four months.

"It gave me plenty of time to think about what happened last season and what we've got to do this season.

"The months I've had off have given me a bit more bite and hunger, and with the new manager coming in, it gives everyone so much enthusiasm.

"Hopefully Sweden will be good for me. It's good to get away and train and play at some new places - it keeps things fresh."