Danny Simpson is set to return from injury in time to face Birmingham the week after next.

Manager Harry Redknapp confirmed the right-back, ever present until a small fracture of the back at the end of January ruined the sequence, has received good news from a scan.

The manager said: “Danny’s improving. In a couple of weeks he could be fit, and it will be good to get him back.”

Redknapp also offered a glimmer of light that sees stricken striker Charlie Austin back to play a part before the end of the season.

Rs top scorer suffered a shoulder dislocation against Bolton at the end of last month, and was originally ruled out for the rest of this campaign.

“Back before the end?” offered Harry. “Hopefully, if anyone can do it it’s Charlie – he’s that type of lad.”