Peter Atherton is back on the comeback trail but not as close to playing again as had been forecast.

The injury-jinxed City defender has been sidelined three weeks since tearing his groin against Leicester.

Atherton has started running again but is not ready to rejoin full training.

He said: "I read a report somewhere that I'd be back next week but that's certainly not true. I've been running round the pitch and will start building things up but it's too early to do too much.

"It's very frustrating. I got six games under my belt and thought I was back at last but unfortunately these things happen.

"I'm just trying to stay positive and keep my chin up."

Two months into the season City have already used nine different players in the back four. It's an echo of last year when injuries constantly ravaged the plans.

Atherton, who played only an hour's football last season, said: "It's difficult for the gaffer and for the players having to keep mixing and matching. You're never sure who's going to be in the back four but the lads who have come in have done a great job."

Goalkeeper Aidan Davison has returned to training but suffered a slight setback from his torn thigh.

Physio Steve Redmond said: "It didn't feel quite right when he tried kicking the ball long. Aidan's going to be another week or so."