Shaun Goater is set to make his return to English First Division football today after a two-week injury lay-off.

The Bermudian and fellow striker Darren Huckerby are expected to start for Manchester City as they come up against Walsall at Bescot Stadium.

While Goater has recovered successfully from a thigh injury, another key figure in City's attack, Paulo Wanchope, seems unlikely to play because of a recurrence of a knee injury.

"Our only doubt is Paulo who has a small problem with his knee. That's obviously disappointing for us but to counter that Shaun Goater is fit and comes back into the squad," said City's coach Derek Fazackerely.

"We are not in a position where we need to take chances with people and if Paulo is not fit then he will not be risked. There are 13 more games and we will need everyone fit for the run-in, so we won't take any chances."

Defender Steve Howey, who was on the injury list too, is also now fit and available to play again.

Meanwhile, Goater's strike partner Paul Dickov was yesterday poised to join Premier Division Leicester City after undergoing a medical. The clubs have agreed a deal.