Bayern captain Phillip Lahm has told German media he expects to fully recover from fractured ankle and be back in action for February.
"I won't be back in January under any circumstances."
Lahm, who sustained the injury last month in training, looked set to return to action just after the winter break. The world champion has left a strong Bayern team looking for a leader, with stand-in Bastian Schweinsteiger having his own injury problems since the start of the season.
Pep Guardiola said, "He is the most intelligent player I've ever worked with," this shows just how important Lahm is to the Bavarian side. Bayern will be hoping their captain is available as soon as possible so Guardiola can select his strongest team.
"It must be noted that this season we have everything under control," the 31-year-old told Bild. "It could be February, but perhaps March. Luckily I don't have the pressure of World Cup or European Championship qualifying. When the season reaches the key moment I will be back to 100 percent fit."
Even without Lahm, Bayern are well on course to win another Bundesliga title. While they've also confirmed top-spot in their Champions League group, something he is well aware of: "We've played with such consistency and tactical variation, we've never played like this before. The title is far from won, but if we carry on like we are then there can only be one winner: Bayern."