Cardiff v Palace. Early team news

Last updated : 17 October 2009 By Palace Reporter

Forward Ross McCormack was sidelined for almost two months with a hamstring injury before returning to make a 90th-minute cameo appearance in the 4-0 romp at Watford last time out.

And he has used the international break to build up his fitness and get some reserve-team minutes under his belt in order to be at 100% for the visit of Neil Warnock's side. Full-back Kevin McNaughton has also returned to the fold having been out since pre-season with an ankle problem.

Whether manager Dave Jones opts to change a winning formula, however, is a different matter although McNaughton may be called upon as Mark Kennedy struggles with a slight hamstring spasm.

Joe Ledley missed Wales' double header against Finland and Liechtenstein with a pelvic problem but he should be okay, as should teenage right-back Adam Matthews after an ankle injury.

But Josh Magennis will not be available having joined Grimsby on a month-long loan deal.

Stern John, Freddie Sears and Claude Davis could all return to the frame for the trip.

Striker John has been missing since suffering a dislocated elbow on the opening day of the season and on-loan West Ham youngster Sears has been sidelined since spraining his ankle against Scunthorpe last month.

Defender Davis is still waiting to make his second Eagles debut after a hamstring injury and a virus.

All three resumed full training over the international break and should be involved in some capacity, although with Palace having won three and drawn one of their last four matches, boss Neil Warnock has no need to rush them.

Defender Jose Fonte should also return after illness but winger Victor Moses is doubtful with a thigh injury.

Sporting Life