Derby County midfielder Benny Feilhaber has undergone successful knee surgery on a torn meniscus in Los Angeles and is still hopeful of taking part in the Beijing Olympics.

The standard recovery time for a meniscus tear of the nature of the American is approximately four to six weeks, and although the Rams’ midfielder is uncertain of the exact recovery period, he believes that he can return to training before the games.

“The surgery was successful,” Feilhaber said. “I’m not sure yet how long it will take to recover, but I assume I can be ready to train again before the Olympics.

“I would love to be ready, but I’m just going to focus on getting better. If it is possible to compete in the Olympics, then I will be very happy.”

Regardless of his participation, the former Hamburg player is optimistic about the United States’ chances in China. “I think we have a very good team,” Feilhaber said. “We have many young players that have huge potential and I think we will be a very tough team to beat.

“Our goal has first to be to qualify from the group and hopefully we can compete for a medal. A gold medal would be simply amazing. If that were to happen it would definitely be one of the top highlights of my life.”

The United States begins its quest for a gold medal against Japan in Tianjin on August 7.