ALAN Thompson could be set for a derby return as Wanderers call all hands to the pump to step up their survival bid.

The left flanker, out since early December when he had surgery on a double hernia, has confirmed his fitness and is in the reckoning for Saturday's clash with Premier League champions Blackburn at Ewood Park.

Thompson might have to settle for a place on the subs bench as he is eased gently back into first team action but his availability will be a major boost to Wanderers hopes of avoiding the drop. The England Under 21 star had his second successive reserve team run-out last night, figuring prominently in a resounding 6-3 win at Derby and prompting manager Colin Todd to say: "He came through very well, produced some quality crosses and free kicks and scored a very good goal. There were good signs there."

Todd was delighted with the 2nd Xl's third successive away win in the Pontins League and suggested: "We haven't had all that many wins to cheer up to now this season but winning is a good habit we want all our teams to get into." Wanderers were celebrating another victory today after hearing Gudni Bergsson will be available for next week's Fourth Round FA Cup tie at home to Leeds United.

Bergsson was due to play for Iceland against Slovenia the following night in a four-cornered international tournament in Malta. But the Iceland FA have agreed to Wanderers' request to release him. Todd, who contacted the Iceland coach yesterday, said: "It's good news. We've dealt with the Iceland FA before and they've always been helpful.

"They know what Gudni can do and don't really need to run the rule over him. They fully understand that we need him for the cup tie."

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