Wigan Athletic defender Antolin Alcaraz could make a surprise return to the starting lineup for Saturday's match against Chelsea at the DW Stadium.
The Paraguayan was expected to be sidelined until the New Year with a suspected fractured rib that he picked up against West Bromwich Albion last Saturday.
"We really weren't too positive after the game on Saturday but, if I were a betting man, I would be inclined to suggest there's a 51% chance he'll be fine rather than not," manager Roberto Martinez told the Wigan Evening Post.
The Latics are currently 18th in the Premier League table.
