AJ to return to training

Striker set to make debut against Arsenal

Last updated: 15th August 2008

Andy Johnson Andrew Johnson Roy Hodgson Fulham unveiling

Hodgson: Johnson precaution

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Fulham manager Roy Hodgson has confirmed summer signing Andy Johnson is on course to return to training on Monday.

Johnson signed for the Cottagers from Everton for an initial fee of around £10.5million, but the striker will miss Saturday's Premier League opener with Hull City due to a thigh injury.

However, Hodgson is hopeful the 27-year-old striker is set to make his debut in the club's second fixture of the season against Arsenal.

"It was close this week. He started training on Tuesday. It was precautionary," Hodgson told Sky Sports News.

"These thigh strains are fairly minor injuries, but they can become major injuries if they do not heal up properly.

"He will be fit at the start of next week to join us in training."

On his hopes for the new campaign, Hodgson added: "We hope to have a much more comfortable passage this season, with not as much heartache as the last."

Prem Top Goalscorer 2008/09: Johnson, A. 80/1