MORTON defender David MacGregor celebrated his 28th birthday on Tuesday, and his best present was being able to start running again two days later.

The longest serving player at Cappielow, who has been plagued by long-term injuries in recent times, had his first light run after an operation two weeks ago on an abductor muscle on the left side of his groin.

The player, who was out of contract at the end of last season, was given an extension until 15 Agust to prove he can regain full fitness.

He said: 'It was good of the club to do that. A week after the operation I managed to do some work on the bike.

'Then, on Thursday morning, I had my first run. It"s quite sore, but then it"s soon after the surgery. Hopefully once I start training properly I can prove my fitness.

'There are no guarantees and it is a challenge to me.

'If I can get back to fitness then I know I can offer something to the team.' That team has been augmented by the addition of former Queen of the South midfielder Neil MacFarlane and MacGregor is looking forward to teaming up with him.

He said: 'We grew up together in Dunoon and our families are close friends.

'I am delighted Neil has signed for us. You always welcome good players and I am sure he will do a good job for us.' MacGregor"s latest injury came just after he had worked his way back into the team, playing 10 league games and one cup tie. It was the start of the team"s recovery after a dreadful start to the campaign. In the 10 league games in which he played in a back four, Morton gathered in 21 points.

MacGregor has now been at Cappielow since 1998 and must be due a testimonial match, but he said: 'Quite honestly that"s the last thing on my mind. I just want to concentrate on getting myself fit again.'