Wolves v Birmingham City: Michael Kightly set for return

Nov 28 2009 by Bill Howell, Birmingham Mail

MICHAEL Kightly is back on song at Wolves after responding to new anti-inflammatory drugs on his knees.

The winger is likely to be on the bench against Blues after losing his place for the last two games after six months on the sidelines.

Mick McCarthy now believes rest after games could be the answer after Kightly shone for the reserves in midweek.

“He has been having some different treatment and he seems to have got his strength, power and sharpness back.

“We have missed that,” said McCarthy. “Everyone thought he could play in the Premier League, but he has not had an opportunity really because he has not been fully fit.

“He has been our blue riband player. Since walking in the door he has set the place alight and the one opportunity we have to set the place alight in the top flight he has not been with us – that’s sad because he was very instrumental in getting us there.

“I want Michael in the team – for me, for him, for the club. And when he gets fully fit he will be a threat. We might just have to rest him after a game. He’s on anti-inflammatory treatment for his knees. He really has responded to that. He has felt stronger and sharper, so fingers-crossed.”

Ronald Zubar will miss the derby through an ankle injury.