Liu Xiang to walk in early October

Chinese hurdler Liu Xiang is expected to walk without assistance in early October, Chinese paper Shanghai Morning Post reported.

The 29-year-old ruptured his right Achilles tendon when he collided with the first hurdle in the first round of the men's 110m hurdles at the London Olympics. Liu underwent surgery in London and received 13 stitches, which were removed at Shanghai Huashan Hospital on Aug 23.

Liu's coach, Sun Haiping, told the paper the hurdler can't move normally now and is basically bed bound, but he should be able to put weight on his right foot in October.

Regarding whether Liu will participate in next year's National Games, Sun said the hurdler was eager to return to the track, but has to make the decision according to how his injury recovers.

Sun also said Liu was enjoying a relaxing life at home and working hard on his cultural lessons.

"Liu's life is very simple, just chatting with friends online, watching some TV series and variety shows," Sun said. "Another important task for Liu is to catch up on his cultural education."

"Liu is a student at East China Normal University, he wants to use this period to take some lessons - especially English - and teachers at the university often come to his home to help him with the lessons," Sun said.

It has also been reported that China Central Television is planning to invite Liu to attend a program, which aims to teach primary school and middle school students useful techniques to start a new school term.

"Liu may join the program if his injury recovers sufficiently," said Tian Mei, director of the program. "Though Liu didn't win the championship at the (London) Olympics, he has fought against injury and has stayed on the track for many years, which is valuable experience to pass on."

Tian praised Liu as a legend and said many children wished to hear his story.