Nottingham Forest captain Chris Cohen says there is no chance of a return before the scheduled nine-month lay-off even if he feels fit enough. The midfielder has been out since September after suffering the third cruciate knee ligament injury of his career in the draw with Derby County.
"The surgeon won't let me play before nine months because it's a re-rupture," Cohen told BBC Radio Nottingham.
"One more and it will probably be game over so I have to be very careful."
"It's disappointing to be here again but the operation went very well and the surgeon is very happy," added the 27 year old.
"As much as I would love to try to come back this season and play a part I don't think I'll be allowed to.
"It will be frustrating but it's the right thing to have a long career rather than play a few games and risk it.
"This time more than the other two times it will be frustrating because they reckon in a couple of months I will probably feel good enough to go," continued Cohen.
"The last two times I have always thought I could be ahead of schedule - even if I probably won't and didn't - and the thought you might be able to drives you on.
"But it's the minimum of nine months this time so that's the toughest thing to get your head around, taking your time with things when you just want to push on and push on."
