AARON Cresswell says he is on the right track to making a first-team return as he looks to recover from a serious knee injury.

The full-back was ruled out for up to four months, after he suffered ligament damage during a challenge in the Hammers’ pre-season fixture against Karlsruher in July.

This meant the 26-year-old has missed the start of the season but he cannot wait to get back on to the pitch at the Olympic Stadium.

“The main thing is that the knee is healing properly and that I don’t rush back and have to start again. I can’t cut corners and I’m working with the physio,” Cresswell told the club website.

“I’m certainly not rushing things and I’ve seen a specialist and he’s happy with the way things are working out and I’m certainly happy.

“No matter if it’s a couple of weeks or however long it is, it’s about getting it right. I’m prepared to put in the hard work and the rewards are at the end of it.

“I’m trying to get fitter and stronger and ready for the Premier League. To miss the opening game was very frustrating for me but in a way it’s a good thing because it’s something brilliant to come back for. Hopefully I can get the knee right and come back fitter and stronger. I went to see the ground at the back end of last season and straight away, there was a wow factor.

“It’s gutting to play all the games over the last two seasons and that last game at the Boleyn and then to miss the opening games against Juventus and Bournemouth.

“But, that’s part and parcel of football and I’ve got to learn to deal with it and get on with it.”

Cresswell was thrilled to see Michail Antonio earn his first England call-up for the World Cup qualifier against Slovakia on Sunday and says it is just rewards for a player who has made the successful journey.

He added: “We’re all delighted for Michail and it’s fully deserved. He was fantastic last season and he’s carried that form on from this season and has already got two goals, which I’m sure he’s delighted with.”