Darryl Duffy ready for an early return to action

The 26-year-old was signed on a season-long loan from Bristol Rovers by ex-boss John Hughes and looked set to try and quickly fill the void left by the departure of Anthony Stokes to Celtic.

Instead, Duffy has yet to kick a ball for his new club after breaking his right foot in a freak training ground accident 24 hours before his intended debut against Inverness last month.

But an X-ray on Monday finally provided the ex-Rangers youth with some good news as his foot is healing quicker than anticipated and he can now up his rehab.

Duffy was expected to be absent for 12 weeks but could now be back in nine as he seeks to make an impression under Calderwood.

Given the manager's lack of attacking options - only Colin Nish, Derek Riordan and the so far unproven Valdas Trakys are available - Duffy's return will be most welcome to the new Easter Road incumbent.

The forward said: "It's healing really well and I'm feeling really good. I've got my air cast off now and I can start doing some light jogging in the gym, going on the bike and running in the pool - low impact stuff.

"I need to build up the muscles in my foot and calf, building it up week by week from walking to jogging, running to twisting and turning and then kicking a ball eventually.

"I've got another X-ray in two-and-half-weeks just to make sure everything is all right and then I'll be pretty much back then. Hopefully in three or four weeks I'll be fit enough to be in squads.

"If I do do that, I'll be nine or ten weeks out rather than the 12 that the surgeon originally said. I've always been a quick healer in terms of bones."

Duffy was hoping to enjoy a prolific reunion with his ex-Falkirk manager Hughes, but is now determined to play his part in a Hibs revival under Calderwood. He added: "It's been so frustrating sitting on the sidelines, not being able to help. I'm itching to get back."