Wigan boss Steve Bruce has confirmed he expects Antoine Sibierski to return to the JJB Stadium when his loan with Norwich City runs out.The 34-year-old Frenchman is eligible for three more matches for City before the end of his loan spell on January 18.

Wigan boss Steve Bruce has confirmed he expects Antoine Sibierski to return to the JJB Stadium when his loan with Norwich City runs out.

The 34-year-old Frenchman is eligible for three more matches for City before the end of his loan spell on January 18.

Reports this week that Sibierski had joined the Canaries on a free transfer proved unfounded, and manager Glenn Roeder has given no indication that he wishes to extend the loan.

Bruce said he was more than happy to have Sibierski back at Wigan.

He said: “Sibi is due to come back and I've no problem about that happening.

“The loan has served its purpose as Sibi has got some games under his belt and would be available for our squad.

“At the moment there hasn't been an approach from Norwich to take him for longer, so I assume he will come back to us.”

Bruce allowed Sibierski to join up with Roeder, his former Newcastle manager, on transfer deadline day in August.

Sibierski, who has been used exclusively as a striker by City, started his first senior match since November when he played against Charlton in Saturday's FA Cup third round tie.

He has played 15 times for City, scoring twice. The last match for which he will be available will be the Championship home game against Barnsley on January 17.

Sibierski's chances at the JJB Stadium were limited by the partnership between Amr Zaki and Emile Heskey, with extra competition set to arrive next week in the shape of Colombia striker Hugo Rodallega.