Malky Mackay has admited that Nicky Maynard is aiming to be ready to play next season after this campaign was wiped out with a cruciate injury.
Maynard started his City career in great form but just three games in he was injured and it cost him his season.
Now after surgery and several months of recovery Maynard is upping his training but he's still a long way off playing first team football again.
“I do not expect to see Nicky in competitive action for Cardiff City again this season,” Malky said.
“It would only happen if the rules regarding the recovery from cruciate ligament injuries have changed – and they haven’t.
“There are no miracle cures or quick time frames when it comes to a cruciate injury.
“Nicky is making good progress and we see him everyday. He is very much at the heart of things with us.
“He’s a great lad and he has managed to come to terms with the injury and I think that can be important.
“The aim now is to see Nicky get back his fitness and to be ready to return to full training in pre-season.”
Richard Collinge, the club’s head of performance explained what Maynard is doing now: “Nicky is getting his boots back on and doing light outdoor activities with a football.
“We have gone through the phase where he was on bed-based work and that is followed by strength testing.
“The hospital consultant is pleased with his progress and the next step is go through some light outdoor work at the training ground.
“There is a long way for Nicky to go, but hopefully we will hit the target towards the end of this season and he will be back in full training.
“You can’t rush these type of injuries. I have seen players go back in too early before and we will certainly ensure he is absolutely right and ready.
“Our target is to make sure Nicky is fighting fit ready for the start of next season.”