Andy Cole is poised to finally make his Birmingham debut in tomorrow’s home Championship clash with Southampton.

The 35-year-old was signed on loan from Portsmouth a fortnight ago but has been forced to miss the last three matches because of a hamstring problem.

But he has started training again - along with key midfielder Stephen Clemence - and Steve Bruce’s only decision is whether to start Cole or name him as a substitute against the Saints. He said: "Cole and Clemence have trained for the first time in two weeks. We will see how they are but I am pretty hopeful they will have no reaction.

"Ideally we could have done with another four or five days of training but their influence is such I might have to take the gamble.

"Will Andy start? I’m just going to have a look. Do you keep him for the last half hour when people are tired or do you start him and try and win the game. That’s the decision I’ve got to make.

"But his experience and know-how - and that of Clemence - will prove invaluable."

Clemence missed the Easter programme with a rib injury.

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