Town have had some good news on the injury front with a scan showing that Lewis Price's groin problem is not serious. Another boost is that Sito, who signed a new contract yesterday, could also be back for Saturday's FA Cup third round tie at home to Portsmouth.

Physio Dave Williams told the club site: "Lewis has had a scan and there are no underlying problems. He's back in full training now and will be available against Portsmouth.

"Sito has a chance as well. He's been doing some light work and may train with the first team on Friday. We'll have a look at him then."

Striker Danny Haynes is also expected to be back after missing the Stoke game with a knee injury. The youngster, who signed his first professional deal earlier in the week, has returned to training.

Dean Bowditch will miss the Portsmouth match due to his hip injury but is expected to be ready to face Sheffield United at home a week later. Dean McDonald is unavailable for the Pompey game as he was cup-tied during his loan spell with Hartlepool.

Nicky Forster (knee) is another who may be back for the Blades match but is definitely ruled out of the FA Cup game. Adam Proudlock aggravated his knee problem in his brief substitute appearance at the Britannia Stadium.

New Norwegian midfielder Vemund Brekke Skard had been pencilled in for Wednesday's reserve game at Arsenal but wasn't considered ready after his groin operation. Skard is likely to require some reserve football before he makes his senior debut.

Academy strikers Billy Clarke (elbow) and Darryl Knights (ankle) also remain on the sidelines.

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