The bowler has not played a Test since August 2024.
England's fast bowler Mark Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" about his fitness for the first Test of the Ashes series in Australia.
Wood has not played since a Champions Trophy defeat against Afghanistan last winter and underwent surgery for a knee issue in March.
The Champions Trophy and tour of India that preceded it marked his comeback after an elbow problem which sidelined him for many months.
"The summer was disappointing," Wood explained. "I was unable to participate in any matches and my knee sometimes, when you think I was nearly fit, it was not just quite there."
"I faced setbacks on several occasions, but in the tent [training camp] it's been going well. I've had the speed gun out and the pace is getting up there."
The first match of the Ashes starts on 21 November at Perth, with England seeking victory in their initial series win on Australian soil in over a decade.
"Hopefully, I'm in form, delivering effectively during warm-up matches and in net sessions, and can make my case for the first Test," Wood continued, who last played a Test was against Sri Lanka 14 months ago.
"The rehab hasn't just been a straight curve, it's been a bit up and down, but I'm in a good position now where i'm hoping to kick on for that game."
"I avoid making statements claiming, 'I'm fully ready, I'm set'. I feel assured currently and feeling a lot more positive, so I'm quietly confident."
Australian Injury Worries
At the same time, worries for Australia regarding the health of squad members have led to player Cameron Green being replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the three-match one-day series with India, beginning this weekend.
Australia already have concerns over the condition of captain Pat Cummins, who has not played since mid-year due to a back injury affecting his spine.
"Cameron Green has been ruled out of the [India] series after suffering mild side discomfort at training this week," the cricket board stated.
"Green will complete a brief rehab stint and is expected to be back to play in round three of domestic cricket to further prepare for the Ashes."
The third round of Australia's domestic Sheffield Shield competition begins October 28th.
