Michael Chopra injured his hamstring in the loss at Derby

It had been feared that Chopra could be out for up to a month with a hamstring problem, after the 21-league goal man was injured against Derby on 17 march.

Scimeca is also improved from a groin strain suffered away to Southampton.

But skipper Darren Purse has suffered a reaction to the back injury the defender seemed to be recovering from.

"Darren is probably the biggest doubt of the three," Bluebirds manager Dave Jones told the club website.

"Michael did have a small tear to his hamstring, but he has made good progress. Riccy had a tear in his groin, but that has healed pretty well.

"Tomorrow (Thursday) will be the big day for both of them. If they can take part in training then they have a chance."

Purse has featured in three reserve team matches on his comeback trail and seemed set to return to first-team action.

But now Kevin McNaughton is likely to stand in for his captain at the centre of defence, partnering Roger Johnson, with Chris Gunter and Joe Ledley the full-backs.

The Bluebirds have already lost defender Glenn Loovens for the rest of the season with a fractured foot.