Magee closing in on finish line in recovery

Mike Magee can “see the finish line.”

Magee, who underwent right hip surgery in September and a right knee procedure in November, returned to full training this week. Though coach Frank Yallop said it would likely be a stretch for him to play Friday in Columbus, Magee would “love” to play May 30 against Montreal.

“I think I’ve had enough obstacles on my own, with rehabbing my injuries, that worrying about stuff on the field hasn’t been that big a problem,” Magee said. “Probably the last maybe two weeks since I’ve been training with contact and doing stuff on the field then all of a sudden it becomes a bit frustrating.

“But for the most part it’s been an eight-month battle with one day I feel like I can climb a mountain, and the next day I feel like I don’t want to get out of bed,” Magee added. “It’s all been a good process but the finish line’s here and I’m just excited.”

The 2013 MLS MVP, Magee was plagued by injuries last season and scored seven goals in 17 games. His last appearance was Aug. 16 at Montreal.

So far this season, the Fire have a clear need for Magee. The forwards haven’t scored in nine games, making Magee’s return even more eagerly awaited for some.

Though he’s clearly eager to come back, it’s not because Magee doesn’t have confidence in the current strikers.

“Scoring goals is fun. Having said that, we’ve created a ton of chances, which is half the battle. We’ve all gone through slumps,” Magee said. “Unfortunately, the team’s in a bit of a slump scoring right now, but it’s going to be fine. We’re creating chances and I’m definitely hoping I can help with that.”

Yallop said Magee won’t begin by playing 90 minutes right away, and that the Fire will be careful not to push him too hard and cause another injury.