Keogh leading race for return

Andy Keogh has now overtaken Michael Kightly and Dave Edwards in the race to play a part in Wolves survival bid.

Keogh wasn't expected back until the start of March from his damaged ankle tendon injury, but is stepping up his fitness bid as boss Mick McCarthy refuses to put a date on their comebacks.

Kightly and Edwards were expected back last month before suffering setbacks to their more minor injuries, while Kightly is still having problems with his knee.

"They've been knocked back in their rehab," said McCarthy regarding Kightly and Keogh.

"Michael is nowhere near – Andy is as near as any of them, he's caught up.

"Dave was back in full training then hurt his ankle again and he's probably another couple of weeks away.

"Michael's having treatment on his knees and he's a good bit away.

"We always try to put a time limit on it, but as regards Keogh, if I said he was two weeks away, I'd be lying, and if I said a month, I'd hope I was lying. I don't know."

McCarthy admitted Wolves' 4-5-1 system would have suited the mobile Kightly down to the ground, while the other two can also play wide.

"Everyone thought he'd be a good player in the Premier League and he'd have the ability to play in this system, whether wide right or left or in behind the front man. He gives us options," he said.

"Keogh too would be beneficial to us playing this system with his pace and running power, as would Dave Edwards.

"Dave did it particularly well at Wigan in behind Andy Keogh with his pace, mobility and legs.

"So it's a blow losing those guys."