Paul Evans wants to play his part in getting City back on the rails.

The Welshman is suffering from a bruised right foot and had to sit out the Sunderland hammering.

But the gritty midfielder, one of the bright spots from a torrid first month, hopes to push his claims to face Preston as Nicky Law's side look to snap a three-game losing run.

Law said: "It is still a bit early to say but I'd like to think he will have a chance.

"He got a bad kick on the top of the foot and they can go on and on.

"You go so far thinking it's getting better and then it levels off, but he seems to be improving.

"It's a shame to have lost Paul because he has come back with a good attitude and done a good job. Hopefully it won't be long before he is available again."

Evans, pictured, has forced his way back into the fray after a poor first season which was cut short by a knee injury while on loan at Blackpool.

He said: "The swelling seems to be going down slowly so it's a case of fingers crossed. Having got back into the team I don't want to be out any longer."

Centre-half Mark Bower hopes to resume full training next week.

Bower damaged ankle ligaments in the centenary tournament final against Aberdeen. But he is running again without pain and is waiting for the all-clear to step it up.

Law said: "Having Mark back will be a big plus for us."

Gareth Edds has been called up by Australia under-23s to face Turkey in Istanbul on Wednesday.