MICHAEL Kightly could be back in training next week – with Mick McCarthy hopeful he will play some part in the final few games of the season.

The luckless midfielder had two operations in Sweden back in December to help the patella tendons in both knees.

They became inflamed while he recovered from an ankle injury picked up against Blues in November 2009, which was to be his last appearance.

Kightly will resume full training early next week and, if all goes to plan, he might be granted an opportunity to move on loan for a month to top up his fitness.

A squad place was kept on hold for him and McCarthy hopes the midfielder will be in a position to play some part in the final few weeks of the season – a period which will define their campaign.

“Kites is flying,” said McCarthy.

“Whether he goes on loan will be determined when he comes back and plays football.

“He’ll be back on Monday to train and will have a light session on Saturday.

“It’s been a long time and it’ll be a massive boost for him.

“For all of us obviously but, first and foremost for him.

“There are quite a few players he’s not played with.