Matteo has been out of action since November and has taken longer to recover from his foot operation than expected, but he now hopes to step up to full training in the next couple of weeks. His return would be a welcome addition to the squad, although a return to the starting 11 would seem unlikely given the form of those in occupation.
Matteo also revealed that despite a Champions League semi-final with Leeds and representing his country at full international level, achieving promotion for the Potters would be the highlight of his career. The 33 year old, who has also played for Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers, explained that Tony Pulis is not getting the recognition he should be for taking the club to the verge of what would be a massive achievement.
In the meantime, there is not such good news of Paul Gallagher. The loanee from Blackburn Rovers scored but then limped off in todays 1-0 victory over Hudderfield Town.
Gallagher, in his second spell at the Britannia Stadium, has only seen first team action once since his deadline day move, starting in the 4-2 victory at Molineux in place of the tired ricardo Fuller on his return from International duty. The extent of the injury is not known as yet, but all will be hoping it is not too serious as Gallagher should play an important part in the clubs push for promotion, providing something a little different from what is already available up front.