A method for channel response estimation for an OFDM communication system based on a certain normal training symbols plus one virtual training symbol begins with receiving at least one preamble symbol of a transmitted data frame. A first channel state information is estimated from the at least one preamble symbol. At least one signalling symbol is then received and equalized and a rate factor and a length factor are extracted from the at least one signalling symbol. A virtual training symbol is formed from the rate factor and the length factor. A second channel state information is estimated from the at least one preamble symbol and the virtual training symbol. The data symbols are equalized by performing channel correction on data symbols with the second channel estimation and pilot sub-carriers in each of the plurality of data symbols.