Burton Albion do not have any new injury worries ahead of the visit of Cardiff City in Saturday's Championship curtain-raiser at the Pirelli Stadium, according to manager Nigel Clough.
Record-signing Liam Boyce begins his road to recovery after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during Saturday's friendly against Shrewsbury Town.
Defender Ben Turner also misses out, as he starts his five game suspension after being found guilty of racially abusing Brentford midfielder Nico Yennaris in December last season.
Last season's player of the year, Jackson Irvine - who missed Albion's last two friendlies because of a tight hamstring - is also expected to feature against the Bluebirds.
Striker Luke Varney is also available following a spell out because of a similar issue.
Clough revealed Hope Akpan should be in-line to feature - after his header opened the scoring in last night's 2-1 friendly win over former Primer League champions Leicester.
“No, not at the moment," replied Clough, when asked about any injury worries the Brewers currently have ahead of Saturday's match.
"I think Hope - his knee was a little bit sore last night.
"He should be fine and in contention, so we've got about 18 or 19 to choose from."
“Yes, he should be fine" Clough added regarding former Derby County man Varney.
"He was down to play last night, but it was just precautionary in the end, (there was) no point in risking him.
"So he will be available."
