"Frank Gore returned to practice Thursday and didn't mince words.

"Yeah I'll play. I'll play good," Gore said of his status for Sunday's game between the host 49ers (8-1) and Arizona Cardinals (3-6).

A day earlier, Gore missed his first practice since reporting to training camp, the result of a knee injury that sidelined him the second half of Sunday's 27-20 win over the New York Giants.

"(While) hitting the ground, I hyperextended my leg, and it kind of shut down my leg, and I couldn't really push off like I wanted to," Gore said. "I wanted to be smart, and (running backs coach Tom) Rathman wanted me to be smart, knowing we've got a long season ahead and we can be successful, and I want to be there."

Gore has rushed for 782 yards and five touchdowns. He is 149 yards shy of passing Joe Perry for the franchise's all-time rushing record.

Gore practiced without the aid of a support sleeve or brace on his knee. He said coaches made the decision to rest him Wednesday.

Already hampered by a left ankle injury, Gore had six carries for zero total yards against the Giants. It was the first time in six games he failed to rush for more than 100 yards, though he did make an 8-yard catch on a third-and-3 play.

Offensive coordinator Greg Roman said the Giants took "extreme measures" in stacking the line of scrimmage with extra personnel to stop the 49ers' run prowess."