Former Dundalk player Jim Gannon is making better than expected progress after having an operation on his knee. The Southwark born Irishman is chomping at the bit to get back to first team action in what is his testimonial year at Stockport County.

He wasn't expected back before the New Year. However, the 32-year-old utility star is optimistic he can prove the surgeons wrong.

"It is in the interests of both the club and myself for me to be back playing as soon as possible. Recently, the flexibility has improved considerably in my knee. I'm beginning to feel stronger and stronger."

Gannon moved to England from Dundalk in 1989 and spent a frustrating year at Sheffield United before signing for Stockport for £40,000.

He has gone on to 480 appearances for the club in a ten-year period, scoring a respectable 64 goals in that time. Jim has been used as a defender, midfielder and forward by the four managers who have been at the club in his time.