Bakary Sako faces fitness race for Wolves

The seven-goal forward missed Saturday's 2-1 win at Leeds with the groin strain that forced him off late on in the 2-0 victory over Middlesbrough last Tuesday.

Sako is hopeful of being available for the televised visit of Birmingham, who appointed Gary Rowett as their new manager yesterday to replace the sacked Lee Clark.

But boss Kenny Jackett said: "We'll wait and see how he develops later in the week. It may be Thursday or Friday before we find out whether he's available for Saturday.

"I thought he'd be fit (for Leeds) but he didn't quite make it. It's a groin injury, it's not too much but sometimes they can take a week or two.

"I'll give him until Thursday and maybe until Friday."

Michael Jacobs replaced Sako at the weekend for what was only his second Championship start of the season.

Jackett acknowledged his contribution and admitted the former Derby man needs more games to be more effective.

He said: "He did fine and the more games he plays, the stronger he'll get. He wants a break in the team somewhere along the line but he did very well for us last season.

"He has had a minimal amount of opportunities so far because of the form of James Henry, Bakary Sako and Rajiv van La Parra.

"And in the No.10 role it's mainly been Dave Edwards and then perhaps Leon Clarke on Saturday.

"So the competition is quite fierce but the more Michael plays the better he'll be."

Villa trialist midfielder Jordan Graham remains on trial and has recovered from a calf strain, but won't be allowed to face his parent club in Wolves' Under-21s' game at Burton Albion tonight.

The 19-year-old is available after coming through the ranks at Villa.