Johnson hopes to return next week Richard Johnson has taken a sizeable step towards returning to action by riding work for trainers Richard Phillips and Henry Daly.The jockey has been forced on to the sidelines since breaking his right leg in a fall at Exeter on October 22nd.He had to undergo surgery to pin the two broken bones but has made good progress since the operation and is now hoping to return to competitive action as early as next week.After riding out for Phillips on Wednesday and for Daly at Downton Hall this morning, Johnson now faces further X-rays next Tuesday and a consultation with Jockey Club chief medical adviser Dr Michael Turner before he is given the go ahead to make his return.He said: 'It all went smoothly yesterday and this morning and I am just hoping that Dr Turner is satisfied that the injury has completely healed.'I have tried not to rush back and risk doing further damage but I am really itching to get started again.'I am going to see my physio, Rabbit Slattery, later today and she will be able to tell me what stage I am at.'The leg feels very good and there has been no pain for ages which hopefully is a sign that the bone is healing well and that the operation has been a success.'The jockey, who has recently returned from a fortnight`s holiday in Australia with girlfriend Zara Phillips, has plenty to look forward to upon his return including potential Cheltenham Festival rides on Looks Like Trouble and Flagship Uberalles.
