Mark Delaney has missed most of the season through injury

The Aston Villa and Wales defender has been sidelined all season, but hopes American surgeon Dr Richard Steadman has got his career back on track.

"I've got my next assessment in the United States on 16 April, when I hope to get the all-clear to start jogging," Delaney told the club website.

"I haven't suffered any reaction from my knee, and everything feels fine."

Delaney is out of contract this summer with the midlands club, although manager Martin O'Neill says he is keeping an open mind on the future of the 30-year-old.

However, despite the encouraging signs of recovery, Delaney is unlikely to play any football before the end of the season to help sway O'Neill's decision.

"Even if I feel really good, I have been told not to rush things at any cost. I must take things easy," Delaney, who has 33 Wales caps, added.

"So far I've followed everything I've been asked to do, from 10 minutes on the bike in the morning and afternoon, to swimming and doing exercises in the pool."