Liverpool are planning on Joe Cole making a return to the fold very soon, according to Brendan Rodgers, as the midfielder continues to recover from a hamstring injury.

Cole had only just returned to the Reds from a loan spell at Lille, when in the opening match of the season he suffered the setback that has kept him out of play for over three weeks now.

But Rodgers today confirmed that he is training for Liverpool again, with the manager hinting that the England international is a big part of his plans for the season ahead.

"Joe is working well and the medical department are pleased with his progress," he told the Liverpool website.

"He was out onto the pitch over the weekend doing some work, so there's still a little way to go with Joe yet but he's on the right track, which is important."

Joe Cole is hoping to show his worth for Liverpool this season.

Cole seemed to be set to make a permanent move to Lille as last season came to an end, but when Brendan Rodgers took over the managerial position at Liverpool he was swiftly returned to Anfield.

At 30 years of age, Cole has spoken about wanting to get back into the fold for the England side, and should the former Chelsea man take his chance for Liverpool under the Rodgers era, he will certainly be in with a shout for a place again.

Rodgers added that Reds youth player Oussama Assaidi is also returning from a groin injury, and is set to move back into training as soon as today.

"He should train today," he explained. "He was due to play in the reserve game, but after training with the reserves in preparation for the game on Sunday, he felt a little bit of tightness.

"We're hoping in the next couple of days he'll be ready to train and re-join the group."

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