Fowler poised for League comeback

Last updated : 04 May 2008 By Michael Morris
The former Liverpool striker has returned to training after a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a hip problem and could be given a run-out as he bids to prove his fitness ahead of the FA Cup final against Portsmouth on May 17.

Another fit-again striker who could feature is Paul Parry after the former Hereford man resumed training following a hamstring injury.

Midfielder Stephen McPhail has been passed fit to play after limping off in last week's 3-3 draw at Burnley.

Jones can also call on defender Darren Purse after his three-game ban for a red card against the Clarets was overturned by the Football Association of Wales.

With nothing left to play for in the Championship it had been suggested Jones may wrap his stars in cotton wool but the Bluebirds boss insists he has no intention to field a weakened side.

Barnsley are expected to include a handful of youngsters in their squad as a host of first-team regulars are missing.

The Tykes, who secured their Championship status last week with a 3-0 win over Charlton, will be looking for revenge against the Bluebirds after their 1-0 FA Cup semi-final defeat last month.

Captain Brian Howard (ankle), defender Stephen Foster (calf), winger Martin Devaney (thigh) and striker Kayode Odejayi (ankle) are ruled out, but Jamal Campbell-Ryce trained on Friday after an ankle injury.

Simon Davey has already revealed Jacob Butterfield could be given a starting berth and he may be joined by fellow youngsters Jamil Adam and Luke Potter.

Daniel Nardiello, Lewin Nyatanga and Luke Steele play the last matches of their loan spells but there are deals in place for the latter two to join on a permanent basis at the end of the season.

Kick-off at Ninian Park on Sunday is at 2pm.

Sporting Life