SIMON Dawkins is expected to return to the Derby County squad to face Wigan Athletic this weekend.
Dawkins, who has missed the past five games due to a hip injury, played an hour for the under-21s at Wolves on Wednesday, scoring twice.
And he could be involved against Wigan at the iPro Stadium on Saturday, most likely on the bench.
With Jamie Ward (thigh) out, Johnny Russell and Jordon Ibe look set to continue in the wide roles.
Dawkins could get his chance to start in the Capital One Cup fourth round tie at Fulham on Tuesday.
"We're thinking more about Fulham for him (Dawkins) to start," said head coach Steve McClaren.
"We got Jordon Ibe off during the week (at Blackpool) to give him a little breather and Johnny Russell played 90 minutes and I think he has got the energy - but Dawkins gives us another option."
