Thursday Apr 13 2006 11:40
Birmingham City boss Steve Bruce expects in-form midfielder Nicky Butt to be passed fit to face Aston Villa in Sunday's crucial derby clash.
The Blues need to win the game to keep their bid to avoid the drop on track and drag Villa into the relegation scrap, but had thought Butt's hamstring injury would prevent him playing.
However, the on-loan Newcastle United man has made swifter than expected progress in his recovery and Bruce told the Birmingham Mail: "Butt has a chance and we are hoping he can join in full training towards the end of the week."
Right-back Mario Melchiot should also be available after shaking off a thigh injury, but the Netherlands international will have to settle for a place on the bench because of the form of Olivier Tebily.
Bruce added: "Melchiot is fit, but how could I leave Tebily out? No chance."
Have your say on this article