Manchester City defender Matija Nastasic could be back in training next week, manager Manuel Pellegrini has revealed.
The Serbian will miss the start of the season after suffering an ankle injury playing for City in the Barclays Asia Trophy tournament last month.
It was feared the 20-year-old could miss the first month of the Premier League campaign but the player appears to be making good progress.
Pellegrini said: "I am not surprised because we saw him in the last week.
"He is not ready for the next match but next week he will work normally with the whole squad."
Striker Sergio Aguero is in contention for City's opening game against Newcastle at the Etihad Stadium on Monday.
The Argentina international has been troubled by a knee problem during the summer but is now close to fitness.
Pellegrini said: "He is fine, no problem. He has worked with us normally for the last 10 days so he is not a problem."
Pellegrini, speaking at a regular press conference to preview the Newcastle match, also revealed winger Scott Sinclair could be allowed out on loan.
The 24-year-old failed to make a major impact after joining City in a £6.2million move from Swansea last summer.
Source: PA
