IT is a case of “so far so good” for injury-hit Ivan Forbes as he continues his rehabilitation from a serious knee injury.

The Portuguese forward was electric in pre-season, netting six goals in nine games, but saw the 2008/09 campaign come to an extremely premature end 35 minutes into the Blue Square South opening day victory at Braintree Town.

Forbes suffered a recklessly late challenge at the hands of Billy Burgess and was stretchered off in what is expected to be his only appearance this season.

The sidelined Magpie has had a successful operation on his damaged knee since, which was carried out by top orthopaedic surgeon Paul Jairaj, and is pleased with his progress to date.

Forbes said: “Everything’s going well, I’ve been going to the gym and I can do swimming now as well so it’s as good as it can be.

“The aim is to take it all step by step and do everything slowly as there’s no point rushing it.

“I spoke to the gaffer Shaun Brooks and he told me about the surgeon, and after finding out more about him I knew I’d be in good hands so I felt even better.

“I’ve seen the surgeon a few times since the operation and I’m going back to see him again in a week or so. He’s been happy with everything so it’s so far so good.

“The club’s helped me out a lot. The chairman Eddie Mitchell and the gaffer have been terrific in their support for me and that makes me happy. I’ll always remember the help they’ve given me.”

Forbes has been forced to watch from the stands this season and after seeing his team-mates almost capture a shock FA Cup victory over Oxford United earlier this month, the 21-year-old has built up an appetite for when he does eventually return.

He added: “It makes we want to be out there as quick as I can but I’ve just got to do everything properly in order to come back sooner rather than later. When I do get back my aim is to do even better than the pre-season just gone and hopefully help the club push on.

“October was a very good month for us and although we’re out of the FA Trophy and FA Cup hopefully we’ll get better in the league and go on a good run.”