Former Fulham striker Brian McBride hopes to return from shoulder surgery ahead of schedule and in time for the Chicago Fire's post-season play-off campaign.
McBride, 37, was expected to be out of Major League Soccer action for up to four months following an operation last month to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder.
Yet with the Fire heading towards the end of season MLS Cup play-offs, the veteran of three World Cups said he was optimistic of a speedier return to fitness.
"I hope it's before (the play-offs)," McBride told the Chicago Sun-Times as the Fire beat Real Salt Lake 1-0 at Toyota Park to move within a point of Eastern Conference leaders Columbus Crew with a game in hand.
"I'm definitely trying to be back by then. This is the best I've ever felt coming out of surgery."
McBride said he had been struggling with the shoulder problem since before the MLS season started in March but he was at pains to dispel fears the eighth surgery of his career would lead to him quitting the game.
"I can only say how I feel, and I feel great," McBride said. "I enjoy being around the staff and guys, and I love playing in Chicago.
"And do I feel like I can play more? Yes. But that decision will probably be made sometime in December, I have a feeling."