Last Updated: Sun, 07 Feb 2010 16:08
Hull City boss Phil Brown has played down speculation midfielder Ian Ashbee may have to retire and is hopeful he will play this season.
Ashbee, 33, has not featured for the Tigers since May after suffering knee ligament damage and there has been speculation the Hull captain may have to retire.
However, Brown feels Ashbee is now making good progress in his recovery and is hopeful he will return to action before the end of the current campaign.
Brown said: "The good news is he doesn't need a further operation,
"Now it's all about rehabilitation and he'll play when he's ready.
"I'm an optimist and think Ash will play again before the end of the season. That has to be the challenge."