But after pestering City's medical staff, the former England U21 has set his sights to be back in action when City return to the south coast on November 20.
"I'm eyeing up the Portsmouth match as my return," he confirmed on the City website.
"I think the physios will say that they have enough of me moaning to them. Every day I am constantly asking them the same question; "when will I be back?
"I have this attitude that if I work harder one day then I will be back quicker but they have to make sure I do the right amount of work to keep me on track and so I don't have a setback that might keep me out for longer.
"I am doing everything they ask of me but I am sure the medical staff will tell anyone that asks that I am a moaner.
"It's been hard," added the scouser. "It is something new to me because while I have been in the first team squad I have never been out for so long.
"I suppose it is all part of the learning process and I have to get on with it and make sure that I come back fit and strong, and I think I will come back fitter."