PAUL Warhurst is lined up for a Reebok return just in time to ease Sam Allardyce's defensive headache.

The defensive utility man came through a reserve team runout on Monday to confirm his recovery from the groin problem that has limited him to just two starts this season and could win a recall in defence for Saturday's visit of Claudio Ranieri's high-flying Chelsea.

Much will hinge on whether Gudni Bergsson gets the all-clear to return after missing the last four games with a calf injury. The Wanderers' skipper, who had hoped to be involved in Sunday's game at Leeds, has suffered a setback and will not know until later in the week whether he will be available for selection.

With Bruno N'Gotty starting a three-match suspension and Mike Whitlow still struggling with a knee injury, Wanderers have limited options in defence, although Ricardo Gardner will be available again after serving a one-match ban.