The former Fulham midfielder injured his knee on his Tigers debut against West Ham United, sparking fears he could face a long lay-off.

Bullard's spell at Fulham was severely disrupted by a serious knee injury, but City believe their transfer-window recruit will be playing again soon.

expert analysis

They have been awaiting expert analysis of a scan, but chairman Paul Duffen said: "Jimmy is completely stable.

"It is not the same injury as 18 months ago, and the worst-case scenario is that he will be out 10 days to two weeks. That means he will be available to return in time to play Tottenham.

"Even if he does need an operation, it will only be to trim a ligament - like Bernard Mendy had earlier in the season."

As a precaution the club have sent the scans to the USA to be examined by renowned specialist Dr Richard Steadman whose skilled surgery is credited with saving Bullard's career.

The midfielder is a doubt for Saturday's Barclays Premier League visit to Chelsea but hopes to be fit for the home match against Tottenham Hotspur on Monday 23rd February.