Maenpaa hoping to return as Bristol City host Derby

Posted Friday, April 26, 2019 by PA

Finland goalkeeper Niki Maenpaa is attempting to get fit for Bristol City’s play-off collision with Derby at Ashton Gate.

Maenpaa has not featured since the start of March because of a calf problem, but Robins boss Lee Johnson says City are “trying to tick the boxes” with the 34-year-old.

Callum O’Dowda will miss out again as the Republic of Ireland winger has suffered a setback in his recovery from a knee injury.

Korey Smith’s injury-plagued season is over after the foot damage he sustained against Reading on Good Friday was more serious than first thought.

Derby are one point and two places better off than Bristol City after two late goals against QPR on Easter Monday moved them into the top six of the Sky Bet Championship.

Craig Bryson misses out after being forced off in that 2-0 win with an ankle injury, and Derby are waiting to see whether the Scottish midfielder can play some part in the rest of the season.

Ashley Cole was on the bench against QPR but the former England left-back has since picked up a groin injury and is unavailable,

Midfielder Duane Holmes is back in contention after missing three games with a thigh problem.