Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu is proud to have received encouraging messages from Black Stars teammates as he continues his recovery from surgery.

The Udinese player underwent surgery on his meniscus after injuring his knee while on national team duty during the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations and is closing in on a return to first team action.

Agyemang-Badu who has made good progress since his operation says the messages from his teammates in the national team have been very encouraging.

"I am getting on well and I expect to start kicking the ball in three weeks time. I am doing lots of gym work and swimming and it's going well," Agyemang-Badu said.

"The doctor did a review and said I might return much sooner than the initial schedule."

"Andre Ayew has called me to wish me well. Also Michael Essien and John Mensah have also called me. I am grateful to them for their concern and all who have supported me.

"I hope to return soon so I can also play for the national team again."