Bayern Munich captain Philipp Lahm has revealed his fractured ankle could keep him out of action until March.
The German World Cup winner suffered the injury on November 18 and underwent an operation to insert six screws to a joint.
It was first thought that the full-back/defensive midfielder could be fit in time to return in January, but he has since admitted that it now appears more likely that he will come back in March.
“I won’t be back in January under any circumstances,” the 31-year-old told Bild.
“It could be February, but perhaps March. Luckily I don’t have the pressure of World Cup or European Championship qualifying.
“When the season reaches the key moment I will be back to 100 per cent fit.”
Bayern Munich look likely to win the Bundesliga title again this season after securing a seven point lead at the top of the table, something which is delighting Lahm.
“It must be noted that this season we have everything under control,” he added. “We’ve played with such consistency and tactical variation, we’ve never played like this before.
“The title is far from won, but if we carry on like we are then there can only be one winner: Bayern.”