Michael Kightly ruled out of Black Country derby

Wolves winger Michael Kightly was today ruled out of a comeback in Sunday's Black Country derby.

But the wide man is on course to be fit for the trip to Newcastle on February 25.

Kightly missed Saturday's 2-1 win at QPR with a back injury that has been troubling recently and he was forced off after an hour of the 3-0 defeat against Liverpool eight days ago. The 25-year-old is just resting at the moment, while undergoing treatment from the club's medical staff.

But with no game for 13 days after the Albion clash, Wolves are keen to use the time wisely and nurse the winger back to full recovery for the game at St James' Park.

"Kightly had just been struggling with a back problem and missed the QPR game," said boss Mick McCarthy today.

"He's resting at the moment but the aim is to have him training again and hopefully available for the game with Newcastle."

The news is another dent in Wolves' preparations for the visit of their arch rivals at a time when they have already been robbed of two midfielders.

Emmanuel Frimpong is out for the rest of the season after damaging his cruciate ligaments in his right knee at Loftus Road last weekend, while

Karl Henry serves the last game of his three-match ban after being sent off against Villa.

See also:

• Wolves ace Matt Jarvis back on the goal trail

• Sebastien Bassong has faith Wolves will survive

• Keith Andrews is ready for the derby heat