Birmingham City: Eck’s awe at Liam’s recovery

Sep 3 2009 by Colin Tattum, Birmingham Mail

“Now we’re at six months and he’s looking really good.

“We won’t count our chickens on that one and won’t say when he is coming back for definite. But, certainly, Ridge has made excellent progress and we’re pleasantly surprised.”

Following on from Ridgewell’s mishap, David Murphy fractured his kneecap during Blues’ next game at Watford.

He, too, is nearing a return, although the left-back is roughly on the expected schedule. “Murph is training at the decent level, but he’s not ready to join the group just yet,” said McLeish.

“We’re guided by the specialists. They told us he would maybe miss the start of the season but wouldn’t be far away after that.”

Gregory Vignal (hip, hamstring), who has taken Murphy’s slot, should have recovered in time for Blues next fixture, the Villa derby at St Andrew’s on September 13, McLeish confirmed. Midfielder Damien Johnson, was has yet to see action this season, has also eased his way back into the fold.

“Damien had a strain,” said McLeish. “He’s not been available to us yet.

“He’s joined up with the Northern Ireland team this week. He wasn’t fit to be involved for us at Spurs at the weekend as he had only trained for one day. But he should benefit from being with the Irish and come back to us fine.”