Hull's Bullard eyes Fulham return

Bullard made a scoring return for City's reserves against Bolton

Hull midfielder Jimmy Bullard's long-awaited return to first team football could come against former club Fulham.

The 30-year-old, who has not played since January because of a knee injury, trained with the first team on Friday.

And he is now expected to be named in the squad for Monday night's game at Craven Cottage.

"It's a big decision but it's great to have him back and see the things that he does," said Tigers assistant manager Brian Horton.

"He's a quality player and he'll be a massive plus when he does start a game."

Bullard scored on his return for Hull's reserves against Bolton two weeks ago and played for 70 minutes in a behind-closed-doors-friendly against York City.

606: DEBATE Should Bullard figure against Fulham?

Horton added: "We all want him back as quickly as we can but you can't rush it."

Bullard suffered a serious knee injury 37 minutes into his Hull City debut at West Ham United after joining from Fulham.

The Tigers' £5m record signing was flown to the United States for surgery and has been undergoing extensive rehabilitation under the watchful eye of club physiotherapist Simon Maltby.