The 30-year old former Lyon captain was injured during Bolton's game with Middlesbrough in September, but after a meeting with surgeon Professor Moyen the Frenchman claims the outlook is positive for a first team return before the summer.
"If it continues in that way, I hope to be able to play again before the end of the season" Laville explained
Signed from the French Champions Lyon in January 2003 on an initial loan period, the centre half was outstanding during the last few months of last season and a key figure in helping the club avoid relegation, so much so that Bolton manager Sam Allardyce shelled out £500,000 to make the deal a permanent one.