Clingan close to Coventry return

Clingan has made 24 appearances for Northern Ireland

Coventry City midfielder Sammy Clingan has set his sights on a return to first team action by the end of November.

The Northern Ireland international has been sidelined since breaking his metatarsal against Leicester City at the Ricoh Arena on 3 October.

And the Sky Blues appear to have missed Clingan badly, having picked up just one point out of a possible 15 since.

But, although Saturday's home date with Crystal Palace is too soon, he hopes to be back for the QPR game (28 November).

"The Crystal Palace match this weekend may be a bit too soon," Clingan told the club website.

"But the match against QPR at Loftus Road next week could be a realistic target.

"It's not been easy having to be in the gym and sitting in the stand, especially considering they've had a couple of bad results because I just want to get out there and help my teammates.

"My foot's been a bit sore to run on for too long at the moment but the important thing is not to rush back because I could end up letting the lads down by not performing as well as I can.

"And I could also worsen the damage so I have to be patient."

Clingan, 25, who signed for £650,000 from Norwich City this summer, had scored three goals in four games prior to his injury.