Dickov has yet to score this season

The veteran striker, 34, has been troubled by a nagging toe injury, which requires surgery, and has figured in only three matches over the last month.

In total, he has made 17 appearances this season but has yet to score.

City manager Stuart Pearce confirmed: "Paul has a problem with his toe and it is to do with what appears to be a floating bone."

On a brighter note, Pearce has tipped Djamel Abdoun for a bright future after signing the winger on loan from Ajaccio.

Abdoun, 20, who has featured at youth level for France, is expected to play the majority of the season in the reserves.

Pearce said: "He plays wide on the right and is probably one for the future rather than the here and now."