Hull City head coach Grant McCann has called Angus MacDonald an “inspiration” as the defender prepares to make an emotional comeback from an 18-month lay-off tomorrow night.

MacDonald will play for the Tigers' under-23s tomorrow night when they host Birmingham City at the Roy West Centre, a run-out that marks the latest step in his plans for a Championship return.

Not since August 2018 has the 27-year-old featured for City after seeing his involvement placed on hold by two serious illnesses.

MacDonald first overcame a blood clot in his calf, a setback that saw him miss almost all of last season, and then began a more serious battle when diagnosed with bowel cancer in the opening weeks of this campaign.

The centre-back was eventually given the all-clear after treatment just before Christmas and two months of training back in the City fold has now led towards his return to action tomorrow night.

“It’s a massive step for him,” said McCann. “For where he was three or four months ago and to be where he is today.

“He’s looking great in training and he puts everything in. He’s an inspiration when you look at what he’s come through.

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“He’s going to be playing his first game in well over a year and it’s a credit to him for the way he’s bounced back.”

City will continue to treat MacDonald’s recovery with caution after such a long spell out but the plan is for a number of appearances for the under-23s to bring a first-team comeback after this month’s international break.

“I’ve been really pleased with Angus,” added McCann. “Unfortunately the game last week got called off because of a waterlogged pitch and he was gutted.

“He’s had at least three weeks with us now, possibly longer, so he’s in a good place.

“He’ll play some part in the game tomorrow, as will one or two others to keep match fitness up.

“Angus will play 45 minutes tomorrow. It’s important that we ease him in and not go overboard too soon. It’ll be good for him.”

(Image: Focus)

MacDonald will not be part of the squad that travels to Stoke as McCann continues to be without nine first team players in total.

Keane Lewis-Potter is expected to be involved at the Bet365 Stadium, following his recent hamstring injury, but key personnel will again be left behind.

“Josh Bowler is getting close,” said McCann. “He’s been on the pitch with the fitness coaches so he’s looking better. Herbie (Kane) is probably still another couple of weeks away.

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“Same as Reece (Burke), same as Jordy (de Wijs) and same as Jon Toral. It’s just Josh Bowler who’s probably closer than anyone else.

“If we can get him on the pitch next week then he will but he’s been out for a bit of time now. He’s going to need some conditioning work to get up to speed.”