Marseille manager Michel uncertain about Abou Diaby's return

Handed a second lease on an injury-riddled career this summer, Marseille's Abou Diaby is again hampered by ailments that delay his debut for the South Coast club, leaving manager Michel unsure of a time frame for the angular midfielder's return.

Diaby, 29, became one of two reclamation projects for Marseille this summer. While Lassana Diarra's return to French football has been highlighted with a Ligue 1 Player of October award, Diaby has yet to make his first appearance for the club.

Diaby is again glued to the treatment table patiently awaiting his debut.

"He's been training with us but he felt some discomfort," Michel told reporters, courtesy of ESPN FC. "It's up to the doctor to talk about him. I would like to talk about his performances, but unfortunately it's not possible. I hope that will be the case one day - he deserves it."

The former Arsenal player has been desperate to play first-team football this season, though when asked if he would play for the club this year, Michel said, "I don't know."

The Spanish gaffer implied that Diaby's layoff would not require reinforcements during the January transfer window.

"It's not a position where we have to strengthen because it's his," Michel said. "Obviously if there's an opportunity (to improve the midfield), we'll profit from it, but it will not be to replace him."

A cautious tale for all aspiring professional footballers, Diaby's career has been one of disappointment. A breakout 2009-10 campaign for the Gunners that witnessed the angular Paris-born midfielder make 40 appearances for the club in all competitions with seven goals and six assists was preceded by five seasons of 42 total appearances.