Reading FC’s Jem Karacan is set to return to first team football after year long spell on the sidelines due to a cruciate ligament injury.

The former Turkish U21 international ruptured a cruciate ligament in his right knee during a Championship clash against Leeds United in September 2013.

“I’m on the edge now. Hopefully I can really step it up now,” Karacan said.

“After I said a few weeks ago that I would be back in October, I had a little bit of a blip which was frustrating but now I’m out on the training pitch every day.

“I’m working so hard to get my fitness up.”

Karacan added: “I’m nearly there, I’m really pushing to get back as soon as I can.

“It’s been tough but I’m hoping we’re on the final couple of steps of the ladder.”

Karacan is expected to be in Reading’s squad which faces Cardiff on November 21.

The 25-year-old made seven appearances for Reading last season.