Robinho suffered a stress fracture to his ankle while on international duty with Brazil earlier this month and has missed City's last four games.

City originally expected their record signing to be sidelined for four weeks, but it is likely to be towards the end of October when he is ready to return.

"It is still in a pot, so he is not training, just doing work in the gym," said City boss Mark Hughes.

"I would imagine it would be another two to three weeks."

Petrov positive

Meanwhile, Hughes brushed off Martin Petrov's goal celebration after the Bulgarian winger marked his first start of the season by scoring in Monday's 3-1 win over West Ham United.

Petrov, who was close to joining Tottenham before the close of the transfer window, pointed to his name on the back of his shirt after scoring, but Hughes was unruffled by the matter.

"He does it all the time," shrugged the Welshman.

"He was a really positive influence on the game, which is what we need.

"I don't want players who sit in the stand feeling sorry for themselves. They have to be ready to come on and perform.

"When opportunities present themselves, you have to be able to make an impact. That is what Martin did."