New York Rangers defenseman Marc Staal will return to the lineup Thursday against the Senators after missing the past two games with an undisclosed injury.

Staal told reporters the news following the team's morning practice.

"Yeah, it will be good to get back in the lineup tonight and try and win another one at home," Staal said. "It's been hard to watch, but our team has been playing great and we're winning and it makes it a lot easier when you are watching wins."

Staal, who had not expected to miss two games, said he skated on his own Wednesday and felt pretty good. He said there are no restrictions on what he can do Thursday.

Various reports said he was experiencing soreness in the left knee that he originally injured Feb. 22.

"You can't really prepare for it, it's just kind of one of those things that happen," Staal said. "Right now it's good to be back and I'm concentrating on helping us continue to win."

The Rangers host the Senators at 7 p.m. ET at Madison Square Garden.

Matt Ehalt is a regular contributor to ESPNNewYork.com.