Manchester City are waiting to discover how long Craig Bellamy faces on the sidelines, after the striker suffered a knee injury during the 2-1 defeat at Hull City.

The 30-year-old Wales international was replaced on the hour mark at the KC Stadium and has travelled to London to seek out the opinion of a specialist.

City manager Roberto Mancini told the club's official website:"Craig is in London today, by tomorrow we should know how serious this injury is. At the moment I do not think it is too bad.

"He reported the problem after the game on Saturday and it was important that he was checked out as soon as possible.

"I know about Craig's injury problems in the past and I hope this does not turn out to be like his old injuries, but we will have to wait for the results from the doctor.

"If he is okay I would hope he is training again this week and available for Stoke.

"He is an important part of the team and with some big games coming up I would like to be able to pick Craig if possible.

"We have some good options to choose from if he is not available, but Craig drives us on when he plays, so I hope he is back for us very soon after Bolton."

Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email

Related articles

• Sluggish City concern Mancini
• Bridge poised for City return
• Ferguson fires up United
• FA hand Rio four-match ban
• Unhappy Robinho set for Santos