Andrew Flintoff expects to resume batting in the nets next month as he continues his recovery from knee surgery.

The England all-rounder is eager to get back in action but does not expect to be bowling for some time yet.

"I'm just really looking forward to starting cricket exercises again, which I hope to start early in the new year," said the 32year-old.

"As long as I don't have any setbacks, I should be able to start batting against a bowling machine.

"I won't be doing anything daft and I will have to ease into it again, but it will be be great to start hitting balls again.

"However, I'm still some way away from bowling again just yet."