Back in the frame - Guirane N'Daw will return to Wast Hills early next week.

Chris Hughton says that having Guirane N'Daw back from the Africa Cup of Nations tournament earlier than expected is a 'real plus' for the team.

Despite being one of the favourites, N'Daw's Senegal side failed to qualify for the knock-out stages of the competition after losing their opening two group.

Their final match is against Libya on Sunday, after which the midfielder will fly home to rejoin Blues.

"We feel for Guirane because he has a lot of national pride," said Hughton.

"It was a big surprise (for Senegal to lose 2-1 to Equatorial Guinea).

"What didn't help them was the downpour before the game and the rain affected the pitch.

"But our only concern was about our player and it was a real plus for us, that we get him back early.

"Senegal play again on Sunday and hopefully we will get him back here on Monday.

"I spoke to him before the last game, just to see how he was and his form.

"He played in the two friendly games they had before the tournament, and they were competitive games as well.

"It was a big blow for their nation. They were one of the favourites. And when you look at the strength of their team you can see why.

"But, as I said, our concern has to be about our player and it will be really good to have him back."