Russell Martin hopes for derby fitness boost, but Joe Allen misses out

Russell Martin expects to have one of his injury absentees ready to return for the south Wales derby, but confirmed Joe Allen will not face Cardiff City.

Joel Piroe will also be absent as he serves the second game of a three-match suspension for his red card against Burnley.

Ryan Manning and Jamie Paterson are recovering from hamstring and groin problems, while Allen is also sidelined by a hamstring injury.

“We’re still hopeful we’ll have one of the guys back. We’ll have to wait and see,” said head coach Martin.

“Things can change. At this minute in time we’re looking forward to having one back, with the others it’s just a case of what's best for them. You don’t want to rush it.

“With this game it’d be really easy to rush people back because the lads are desperate to be involved in the game but we have to decide what is best for them and for the group.

“We’re missing some key people at the moment but they’re contributing hugely in a different way with how they are around the dressing room and I think that only helps to strengthen the bond between the group.

“With Joe, he’s frustrated to be missing this one.

“He’s angry and upset at missing this one for sure. We’ll just have to keep assessing the situation. He’s got an unbelievable mentality. We hope that at some point we’ll have more clarity on that one.”