Group One-winning jockey Larry Cassidy hopes to make a sooner than expected return to the saddle after a one-year injury lay-off.

Cassidy hasn't ridden since June 8 last year because of recurring problems with his knees which needed surgery.

Cassidy has been riding at the trials and jump-outs in the past month and had been planning a low-key comeback at the end of August.

However, he has accepted the ride on Forbidden Love at the Gold Coast on Saturday for trainer Les Kelly who is also on the comeback trail after taking a break.

Cassidy said his knees still hurt when he got off a horse but he was able to ride.

"Acceptances aren't until Thursday but as far as I know I will be making my return on Saturday," Cassidy said.

"I have also been working on my weight. I woke up this morning the lightest I have been in a year."

A Sydney and Brisbane premiership winner who has ridden 40 Group One winners, Cassidy's last win came on future champion Winx in the Sunshine Coast Guineas in May last year.

Apprentice Matt McGillivray makes his return to Brisbane with several rides at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

McGillivray, who was formerly with Barry Baldwin in Brisbane, has been based with John Sargent in Sydney and has ridden several winners in recent weeks.

However, he wants to ride in Brisbane on Saturdays during the spring carnival and in Sydney during the week.

McGillivray has pickled up several key rides including Flamboyer in the Open Handicap (1400m) and Binalong Road in the one-metropolitan-win race.