Chris Iwelumo scored 16 goals in his first season at Molineux

Wolves striker Chris Iwelumo is hoping for a first-team return after playing 45 minutes for the reserves on Tuesday.

Iwelumo broke a metatarsal in his right foot during Wolves' pre-season tour of Australia in July, but returned to action in the 1-0 defeat by Chelsea.

The Scotland international told the club's website: "Getting through 45 minutes was the main thing for me, just to see if there was any reaction.

"But I felt good and I've just got to work on my fitness now and kick on."

Iwelumo added: "It's a massive positive. I had the butterflies before the match and I was delighted to get out there."

The 31-year-old is still awaiting his Premier League debut, despite playing over 300 games with 11 different clubs during his career, including Colchester and Charlton.

Defender Richard Stearman also returned to action after two weeks out with a shin injury, and is also hopeful of playing a part in the game against Portsmouth at Molineux on Saturday.

"We'll see if there's any reaction later in the week," said Stearman. "If not, then hopefully I'll be available for the weekend."

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