return to the Manchester City squad with an impressive performance in the reserves.

A decent performance from the Blues' top scorer the past two seasons could see him back in the first team squad for tomorrow's Maine Road clash with Bradford, the club he made his City debut against in March 1998.

City drew 1-1 with Blackburn at Hyde, and it was not known last night whether the Bermudian had figured in the scoring, or indeed the match.

Manager Joe Royle was scheduled to watch his striker before making a decision on whether he would return to the senior side.

And while the 30-year-old hitman, just back from a knee injury, said that he was itching to get his first show in the Premiership, Royle was of the view that more match practice was needed.

"We did try and organise a practice match this week, but with the amount of rain it proved impossible,'' said the `gaffer'. "Shaun has had one serious reserve match to date and he needs more than that. It is certainly too early for him to start.

"His return would be a massive lift for everyone and no doubt there will be calls to feed the goat again. I know Shaun is desperate to get going again and the great thing is that he is having continuity, there is no problem with his training.'' Meanwhile, Goater is expecting to welcome home he and wife Anita's newest family members, twin daughters that were born last week. Born prematurely, the babies weighed five pounds and five pounds, eight ounces respectively.