DOUGIE Freedman says Scottish compatriot Alan Hutton will have a part to play for Wanderers before his loan spell from Aston Villa runs out at the end of the month.

Hutton, pictured, joined the Whites on February 28 after being frozen out at Villa Park but is yet to make his debut.

The Wanderers boss admits the 29-year-old defender is itching to figure but appreciates the competition for places after 4-0 and 5-1 wins since his arrival.

Freedman said: “Alan is itching to play and it’s a difficult situation for him after coming here.

“But he’s a fantastic professional and a great trainer and he understands it.

“Since he has come in we have conceded one goal.

“But he was brought in to play and there are a lot of games coming up and I have no doubt he will play very soon.”

Freedman has no new injury concerns for tonight’s Championship trip to Derby County but has revealed Chris Eagles is a doubt with an eye infection.

And he added that Matt Mills may be just a week away from his return from a knee problem.

He said: “At this stage of the season you expect a few muscular type injuries but we seem to be good and fit and string and that’s credit to the medical staff.

“Jermaine is back in and Matt Mills is very close – probably about a week away.

“Chris Eagles has an eye infection so he might be 50-50 for tonight.

“I’m not a doctor so I don’t know what it consists off.”