Geoff Cameron hasn’t seen the field since late October due to a knee injury, an ailment that served as a major detriment to both his club and country. However, Stoke City manager Mark Hughes is hopeful that Cameron is nearing his return.

According to the Stoke Sentinel, Hughes is hopeful to have Cameron back in the fold by mid-February. The U.S. Men’s National Team defender has been battling a knee injury since late October, prompting a return to the U.S. in search of a second opinion. After returning from Los Angeles, Cameron is back at the club’s training ground working outdoors with team trainers.

“He’s been over to America, where they backed up what we said and were doing what we’d have done anyway in pushing his progress forward,” Hughes said. “We are hoping to get him out on the grass and in a positive frame of mind. He’s going to have a little bit of pain because of the site of the injury, but it’s a case of getting out there, managing that pain and being able to deal with it to get him back to match fitness.

“Geoff’s one of those players you maybe take for granted because he gives you cover in so many positions. You have a little bit more comfort when he’s around and fit and well. When he’s not around, you have to then have specialist players that can fit in, while if Geoff is around he gives you those options and that versatility.”

Stoke City returns to action Feb. 1 against Everton.