Friday's Sheffield Telegraph checks the progress of Rob Hulse.

United striker Rob Hulse is back running and loving every minute of it.

The hitman is making great strides on his road to recovery following his horrific leg injury and subsequent surgery last season.

Hulse, 27, suffered a double leg fracture after colliding with Chelsea keeper Petr Cech in March but has amazed medics and fans alike by returning to training last week - just four and half months after the clash.

And Hulse says its great to be back out running, biking and rowing - all ahead of his personal return date target.

Hulse said: "I went for my first run last week and it felt great. The first few steps felt a bit strange, and I didn't go that far, but it was great to be out. It was the first time I could put all my weight on the leg and that was a major milestone for me to achieve.

"The hardest part of my time out has been waiting for the bones to heal but I'm over that stage now and I'm just trying to build my leg back up and get some strength back.

"It seems like I have been out for ages - but considering the injury everyone says four and a half months is really good to be back training. The support I've received from fans has really helped me. I've had loads of letters and cards and that has encouraged me to work hard.

"What has been difficult is seeing all the lads go to Ireland and play this week. You do feel you are missing out by spending time in the gym here rather than being together with them.

"But I'm actually ahead of my personal target and I'm hoping in a month, or thereabouts, I can play my part in helping the club bounce back to the Premiership. Promotion is a must and we are all aiming for the Premier League."

United's manager Bryan Robson expects his Blades side to be showing their full mettle by the time they face their two English friendlies ahead of the start of the new season.

Robson is currently testing his side with a series of friendlies in Northern and Southern Ireland.

United have notched up two wins so far with Alan Quinn, Michael Tonge and Danny Webber featuring on the scoresheet against Newry while Billy Sharp marked his return to the United squad with a winning goal against Longford via a well taken header.

Robson has now given everyone in the travelling squad a couple of 90 minute run outs as he aims to get games under the belts and build pre-season fitness.

He added: "By the time we approach our games against Rotherham United and Nottingham Forest I expect the side to be settling down and showing me what they are made of.

"I will be expecting much more in the English friendlies - really these early games are all about fitness levels."

Robson has also confirmed he is still looking for a couple more players to bolster his squad but is keeping tight lipped about the identities of his targets.

Meanwhile United's shot stopper Paddy Kenny and midfield dynamo Nick Montgomery have become the latest first team stars to pledge their future to the club by signing extended deals until 2010.