Abdul Fatawu has made a promise over his return from injury.
The Leicester City winger, 21, admits it is unlikely he will play again this season after suffering a knee ligament injury in November.
But he has vowed to be fit and ready for the first day of pre-season training in the summer, as he gave an update on his recovery.
“I don't think I'll play this season but I am not in any pain now,” he said.
“I can make different movements with my leg and I will be ready from day one of pre-season.”
Fatawu’s last match for the Foxes this season was in a 3-0 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford on November 10 which means he is yet to play under City boss Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Van Nistelrooy was actually in interim charge of the Red Devils for that match before leaving Old Trafford in the wake of Ruben Amorim’s appointment and later taking charge of Leicester.
Fatawu says Van Nistelrooy, who suffered a knee ligament injury during his playing days, has been “like a father” to him during his injury rehabilitation and he is looking forward to playing for him next season.
“I knew his history as a player but he's also been a good friend, always helpful and there for me,” he told The Mail.
“He talks to me about what happened in his career. He went through the same thing.
“He tells me his injury was the time that made him who he is today. He became even stronger and says it can happen to me too. I just need to focus.
“I'd be so happy to get the chance to play for him. He has shown so much interest in helping me as an injured player, imagine what it would be like if I can play and help the team. I can't wait for him to develop me as a footballer.”
How much have City missed Fatawu? Tell us HERE
The latest Leicester City headlines sent straight to your phone
Get the latest Leicester City news sent straight to your phone by joining our Foxes WhatsApp community. Just click here and select ‘Join Community’ to get started.
No one will be able to see your personal information in the community and you will only receive messages from the LeicestershireLive sports team. We will not spam your WhatsApp feed with constant messages, but you will receive updates from us daily with the latest City stories. All you need to participate in this free service is to have WhatsApp on your phone.
If for some reason you decide you no longer want to be in our community, you can leave at any time by clicking on the name at the top of your screen and then 'Exit Group'. It's as simple as that. You can read our Privacy Notice HERE.