Dyer has had bad luck with injuries since his arrival at Upton Park

West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola is set to welcome back midfielder Kieron Dyer after a 17-month injury lay-off for Saturday's FA Cup tie against Barnsley.

The 29-year-old broke his leg in a Carling Cup tie at Bristol Rovers in August 2007 and suffered a further stress fracture earlier this season.

But the England international has impressed in training this week and is poised to be included at the weekend.

"He's focused and he's very excited to play," said Zola.

"He's been working well in the last few weeks and we will try to get him back because he's an important player. I've seen him training, he's trying very hard and he's got a lot of qualities.

"I know it's been a big injury for him and I know it's frustrating because he's training, training, training and he would like to play.

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"After such a long time out it would be difficult for him to be involved from the beginning."

Dyer has made just three appearances for the Hammers since completing a �6m move from Newcastle in August 2007.

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