One of West Ham United's summer signings could finally make his debut for the club in February.
German midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger joined the Hammers from Lazio in June but has failed to make a competitive appearance after sustaining a thigh injury in pre-season.
The ex-Aston Villa and Stuttgart man returned to his homeland for exploratory surgery in October to try and fix the problem and has been unable to grace the pitch ever since.
But he says that he is getting closer to a return and could be back in the Premier League fray come next year.
"There's not a lot you can do after this kind of surgery," said the 28-year old.
"Now the healing process is going well and I'm quite optimistic I'll be able to play in February."
