Assistant manager Chris Hutchings thinks controversial midfielder Jimmy Bullard will be champing at the bit to let his football do the talking after “disrespecting” everyone at the club.

The 33-year-old is currently serving a two-week suspension after turning up late for training, following a night out with team-mate Michael Chopra in Newcastle last Wednesday, but next Friday will signal pay-back time as the veteran playmaker returns to the fold.

Bullard has been a major disappointment since signing a permanent deal in the summer but such is his frustration at not playing, Town fans could see a rejuvenated Bullard if he is given a chance by manager Paul Jewell.

“I know he has been phoning people at the club during his suspension wanting to know what is going on at the club and he wanted to know the score on Tuesday night,” said Hutchings.

“He loves football so the hardest thing for him is to be away from it, but the club has had to make a stand and he has got to abide by that.

“It was disrespectful what he did, not only to his team-mates, but to himself and to all the staff at the club. Michael Chopra is the same, they have both let people down and it is now time for them to repay us.

“Jimmy is back next Friday and he will be champing at the bit.”

Chopra, who was not suspended but instead received a hefty fine for his indiscretion, has taken a kick on his ankle but will be fit for tomorrow’s game at the KC Stadium.

Barring Bullard, manager Paul Jewell has his full squad available and Hutchings revealed the rigours of Tuesday night’s long trip to Southampton may prompt one or two changes.

“We have had a bit of recovery time but we are raring to go again because we are doing okay at the moment,” he said.

“There may be one or two fresh legs to come in and it is something we are looking at.”