CITY HANDED DE BRUYNE BOOST

Belgium boss Roberto Martinez has claimed Kevin De Bruyne could be back 'much sooner' than initially thought...

It was feared De Bruyne could be out for over three months after injuring a ligament in his knee during a training session.

But, Martinez has given Manchester City fans hope describing initial reports of his recovery as 'very positive'.

At the FIFA Football Conference in London, Martinez said:

"The issue is how long he will be out and the reports are very positive. I think we'll see him on the pitch a lot earlier than other players would take with that injury [and] we think he could be even fresher after his period away."

The Spaniard added: "No time scale yet but Kevin wants to be on the football pitch as quick as he can and physically he's got that natural gift of being able to heal quicker than other players."

De Bruyne himself said he needs "three, four, five weeks, but I'm getting there" and if Martinez's comments come to fruition then City could welcome De Bruyne back after the October international break.

The citizens haven't missed their midfield maestro too much though, especially with Ilkay Gundogan doing a sterling job filling in for the Belgian.

A 5 nil demolition of Cardiff and 2 goals for Gundogan highlights the strength in depth City have. The only blip this season being a surprising 2- 1 defeat to Lyon in the Champions League.

Nevertheless, it's been business as usual for City in the Premier League so far this season as they currently sit 2nd and are 2 points behind leaders Liverpool.

At the very latest, City will want their gifted playmaker back for the Manchester derby on November 11th where he will be a welcome bonus to an already incredible squad.