Pittsburgh Steelers star Le'Veon Bell has revealed that he is nearing a full recovery from a knee injury he suffered last season.

Bell sustained a hyper-extended right knee in late December, but has caused confusion after insisting in January that he was "close to 100%".

According to the Pittsburgh Tribute-Review, Bell acknowledged again on Thursday that his knee is "getting close to 100%".

It is understood that the Steelers were hoping for him to return for their wildcard match-up with the Baltimore Ravens last season, and so left the door open for a comeback.

However, Bell will now be expected to make a full recovery before joining his teammates in their off-season practices.