HULL forward Craig Fagan has forgiven Newcastle’s Danny Guthrie for the horror tackle which broke his leg.

Fagan has not played since being felled by Guthrie’s challenge in Hull’s Barclays Premier League win at St James’ Park on September 13.

There were reports suggesting Fagan might take legal action but as the player nears a comeback he insists he bears no resentment towards Guthrie.

The 25-year-old said: ‘‘It happened. It was born out of frustration.

‘‘I wouldn’t say he is a malicious player that goes around kicking people every week.

‘‘It shouldn’t have happened.

It was a bad tackle, he knows that, but I just want to get back playing.

‘‘He did text and ring me after it happened but I said to him I just wanted to get back playing.

‘‘Obviously I’m not going to be his best mate over it, but I’ve forgiven him.

‘‘I wasn’t happy about the situation but it’s all gone now, it’s in the past.’’ Hull will face Newcastle again at the KC Stadium on January 3 after the sides were paired in the third round of the FA Cup.

The game has been suggested as a possible comeback target for Fagan but he insists he will be back sooner, having earmarked the league visit of Sunderland on December 20.

Fagan, who is now back in light training, added: ‘‘It’s been a long road but I’m getting to the end of it.

‘‘I’m with the physio still but I’m looking to get back involved with the first team over the next couple of weeks.”