This is a start in the right direction. Just last week you wanted your baby to be able to self settle. He must have sat down and read all our posts.

Yes, it will get easier, and shorter. You may be able to just sit beside him and hold your hand on his bottom instead of patting, that might be enough, it may take a few days to get to that point, sounds like he still needs that physical contact, but doesn't want to be held anymore. Another option is to make the pats further and further apart, but this takes time to get to this stage too.

Try to get yourself as comfortable as possible, take a chair in, or some cushions and sit beside him. Music often helps, I like to play Enya with unsettled sleepers, it also provides a distraction of noise if you happen to make any noise leaving the room.

Sleeping on his belly is quite normal at this stage, he has learnt to roll and will move around freely by himself, he'll probably end up at the other end of the cot.

Hang in there, it will be worth it.