Defender Jay McEveley looks set to return to the Derby first-team squad just six weeks after fearing his season was over.The full-back suffered what he thought was a cruciate ligament injury in his right knee during the Rams' 1-0 defeat away at Bolton on 2nd January.

However, scans later revealed that the injury was not as serious as first feared and that the Scottish international had in fact only experienced medial ligament damage.

As a result McEveley is now setting his sights on a return to first-team action as soon as possible, with the Rams' next game against Wigan on 23rd February very much in his plans.

"The break this weekend comes at a good time," he told the Derby Evening Telegraph.

"The knee is responding well and I'm feeling good. I'm working on my fitness so I am able to step back into the team if needed.

"We will see how it goes, but the Wigan game is a realistic target."

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