Coca-Cola Divisions: Bruce boosted by Midfielders

Stan Lazaridis and Muzzy Izzet are moving closer to first-team comebacks with Birmingham after stepping up their fitness rehabilitation programme.

Winger Lazaridis has resumed training after a near two-month absence with the thigh injury suffered in the home game with Manchester City.

Blues manager Steve Bruce is considering arranging a practice match for the Australia international who could even come under consideration for Saturday's home Premiership meeting with Crystal Palace.

Midfielder Izzet has been sidelined for three weeks with a knee injury sustained against Newcastle United at St Andrews and is he is due back on the training ground this week.

Sportinglife