Manchester City goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel says he could be forced to quit football at the end of the season.

The Dane has missed the last four games with a calf injury.

Schmeichel was also forced to pull out of the 1-1 draw with rivals Manchester United at the last minute.

Now the 39-year-old has admitted he is only setting himself short-term goals.

These are not happy times for me Peter Schmeichel

"At the moment I cannot look beyond clearing this injury problem," he said.

"If you asked me whether I would be here next year when I was fit I would say yes."

"But these are not happy times for me, it's very demoralising."

Schmeichel has put talks about extending his contract at Maine Road on hold while he battles for fitness.

The keeper admitted he was desperately disappointed to miss his return to Old Trafford after eight successful years there.

Schmeichel is now targeting a return to Premiership action against champions Arsenal in two weeks' time.