Cowboys vs. Bears: Matt Forte practices, expects to play Monday night

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte returned to practice on Wednesday, and now expects to play on Monday night, when the Bears take on the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football.

Forte hasn't participated in a practice or game since injuring his ankle in Week 2's loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sept. 13.

Forte told the Chicago Tribune that he knows how to deal with ankle injuries.

"As long as you know how to take care of your body, that's how you get back on the field," Forte said. "I've had ankle injuries before and I know how to work with them. You have to want to get back on the field."

Asked point-blank if he'd be ready to go Monday, Forte said, "Yeah."

Without Forte in Week 3, the Bears averaged just three yards per carry against the St. Louis Rams. Michael Bush led the team in rushing with 55 yards on 18 carries and a touchdown.

So far in 2012, Forte has rushed 23 times for 111 yards -- good for a 4.8 yards per carry average. Forte also has seven receptions for 89 yards.