Scott Fox is hoping to be back in contention for Motherwell by January.
The former Celtic and Ross County shot-stopper was expected to miss the rest of the season with a cruciate knee injury, but it appears Fox is making a quicker than expected recovery.
Fir Park boss Stephen Robinson had described Fox's freak injury as "horrendous news" in August when it was announced he required surgery on the issue.
However, speaking on the club's behind-the-scenes documentary series 'Inside Motherwell', goalkeeping coach Craig Hinchcliffe revealed the 33-year-old is targeting a return at the start of 2021, which would coincide with fellow goalkeeper Trevor Carson's return from injury.
Hinchcliffe said: "We are looking at March possibly, although Foxy thinks it could be January.
"That's just testament to his nature.
"He is dying to get back into it.
"He's been helping me out. He's actually going to see PJ Morrison, who is out [on loan] at Falkirk, so he's going to do that [report] for me.
"We are keeping him involved, he's doing lots of work in the gym and it's just about trying to keep that smile on his face just now."
Hinchliffe also confirmed that crocked Carson hopes to return in January as well after the Northern Ireland international suffered a meniscus tear in a win over Ross County last month.
Motherwell currently have Aaron Chapman and Jordan Archer vying for the gloves after both joined as cover for Fox and Carson, respectively.
The Steelmen are back in Premiership action this weekend when they travel to St Johnstone.
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