BLUES GET GRONKJAER BOOST

The Danish winger underwent a successful operation on his knee six weeks ago and it was feared he would be out of action until the New Year, but now he could be back by Christmas

Blues physio Mike Banks admitted that the surgeon who carried out the operation was happy at how the injury was progressing and that he would be stepping up his recovery in the next few weeks.

"The surgeon's almost ecstatic with the condition of his knee," Banks told the club's official website. "He's now quite strong. We've managed him carefully. There's now no swelling.

"We're looking to step up his work from next week. We're going to review him again in four weeks' time which is a lot shorter than the original plan."

Banks also reported that long-term injury victim Roberto Di Matteo was close to making a return to action after more than a year out.

The Italian midfielder has had the pin from his leg removed and he is in the final stage of recovery before starting training again.

"We think the pin was causing him one or two little problems," said Banks. "All being well, that's the last he's going to see the surgeons."