Birmingham midfielder Olivier Kapo is poised to return to training on Monday and could play a part against Manchester City next weekend.The former Juventus player has been sidelined since suffering a torn hamstring against Arsenal at St Andrews a month ago.

Blues have missed Kapo's attacking threat from the left, and Saturday's reversal at Reading means they are only point above the bottom three.

But the player who has scored five goals this season is now fully recovered.

Blues boss Alex McLeish said: "Kapo should be back training with us this week - and he will chomping at the bit to try and claim a place.

"The only time we want players back training with us is if they are ready to push for a first-team spot."

Kapo's return is a timely boost, given that striker James McFadden has had to undergo keyhole surgery to cure a knee problem.

It forced the former Everton player out of Saturday's clash against the Royals, and he will also miss the home game with Manchester City and the away encounter with Wigan.

McLeish said: "It is a blow, because James has made a big impact since being here. He has lived up to the responsibility of his price tag, and the players have looked up to him.

"Although the surgery was of a routine nature, he will be out of the next two games. But it is the chance for someone else to step up to the plate in his absence."

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