Last Updated: Wed, 26 Mar 2008 13:55
Wigan say they 'expect' Chris Kirkland to be fit to face Portsmouth on Saturday as he battles with a back injury.
The former Liverpool man suffered the problem in the defeat at Blackburn last weekend and although he was able to see out the game, he was seen as a major doubt for the trip to Fratton Park.
But Kirkland, who was forced to withdraw from the England squad for the friendly in France, could now take his place in the squad for the trip to South Coast.
Steve Bruce said: "Thankfully common-sense prevailed and Chris didn't have to travel to London to be assessed by the England doctors.
"The journey wouldn't have been ideal for someone with a bad back, but we do expect him to be okay by the weekend, although his back was still a bit in spasm yesterday."