City boss Iain Dowie has been handed a boost ahead of two tough away trips at Stoke City and QPR with the news that striker Leon McKenzie is close to full fitness.

McKenzie started the season in fine form but has missed the Sky Blues' last nine outings with a knee injury.

The 29-year-old star will step up his fitness battle by resuming full training tomorrow and is champing at the bit for a return to the side.

"Leon is getting closer but he may need a reserve game under his belt before he's fully ready to return," confirmed City manager Iain Dowie.

"He'll resume full training tomorrow so we'll see how he goes but we are probably looking at having him back in the squad for the QPR game on Tuesday rather than Saturday."

Sky Blues Performance Manager John Harbin has been casting his eye over McKenzie's progress in recent weeks and admits he has been impressed with the former Norwich man's attitude.

"I've been working with Leon recently, as he's just come back from a knee operation four weeks ago and he has been making terrific progress," added Harbin.

"In terms of agility and the short sprint work, it's fair to say Leon is outstanding in that department, along with Michael Mifsud.

"The other day, he actually broke the club record for some agility tests we do and that's the fastest time of any individual at any club I have been involved with - he's on fire at the moment."

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