Blues boss McLeish hopes Stephen Kelly can now bounce back from injury

Jan 3 2009 by Andy Walker, Birmingham Mail

ALEX McLeish is hoping that fit again Stephen Kelly will return eager to bounce back from his early season misery.

The Republic of Ireland international is back in contention for Blues’ FA Cup showdown with Wolves today after three months out with a thigh muscle injury.

Prior to picking up his injury, the right-back was forced to play second fiddle to Stuart Parnaby at the start of the season.

Ironically Kelly was Blues’ only ever present outfield player last season yet he has only made one start and three substitute appearances during the current Championship campaign.

Now, with Nicky Hunt having been recalled by Bolton Wanderers, Kelly, for whom Blues rejected a £2.7 million bid from Fulham in the summer, will attempt to outmuscle Parnaby from the right-back berth.

And McLeish now wants to see the hungry Dubliner looking to make amends for his lack of action so far this season.

“Stephen Kelly hopefully comes back with all guns blazing,” said McLeish.