Zoltan Gera targets a surprise return

Zoltan Gera wants to give Albion a surprise fitness boost by returning to action before the season ends.

Zoltan Gera wants to give Albion a surprise fitness boost by returning to action before the season ends.

The Hungary international, who had been ruled out for the rest of the campaign with a ruptured cruciate ligament, is targeting a quicker-than-expected comeback.

Boss Roy Hodgson today praised the 32-year-old's attitude but insisted Hawthorns medics would take no chances on his fitness.

"He is determined to be back before the end of the season and he keeps telling me 'it won't be long now'," smiled Hodgson.

"Obviously the doctors will be a bit more cautious and will be pouring cold water on that enthusiasm but it's very nice when you've got such enthusiastic players.

"We have lost Brunt for two months of this season and Zoltan for the best part of it so we will have two fantastic 'new signings' going into the start of next season."

Albion headed for Fulham today with Steven Reid (ankle) and Paul Scharner (Achilles) back in the squad after injury.

Billy Jones (calf) and Jerome Thomas (ankle) face late fitness tests while Shane Long could be restricted to a substitute's role after missing training in the last week with a mystery illness.