Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini is hoping to have star striker Mario Balotelli back in action sooner rather than later.
Mancini has been frustrated that Balotelli's return has taken longer than expected following minor surgery.
Balotelli's return had been pencilled in against Arsenal on October 24 later this month, although that might now be delayed.
"It's about time Mario comes back, and fast," said Mancini.
"He is recovering. All is normal. There are those who come ready a week earlier and those a week later.
"He has had his knee checked by the specialist in Pavia and again last week.
"We are just waiting for him to return now."
Mancini has also been without summer signings Jerome Boateng and Aleksandar Kolarov for much of the new season due to injury and he will continue adapting his tactics until the pair are fit.
"Without flying full-backs like Boateng and Kolarov, who can push forward, I've had to adjust the team in order to get results and stay in touch with the leaders until everyone is back and fit," he continued.
