John Ruddy was always going to be missed by Norwich City – but Chris Hughton insists Mark Bunn's contribution to the Canaries' Premier League survival bid should not be overlooked.

City's England international is primed for his long-awaited top flight return against the Baggies after a five-month injury lay-off following thigh surgery. Bunn has continued to deputise in recent weeks but Hughton needs no reminder of Ruddy's qualities.

'I think we have missed him because he was a player in very good form but I don't want to understate what Bunny has done for us,' said Hughton. 'It is a very difficult position as the last line of defence. If I look at Bunny's contribution he has certainly had more good games than not. Yes, we have missed John but I do not underestimate how good Mark Bunn has been. He has been a good signing for us and with the lengthy injury we had for John that proved to be the case even more.'

Robert Snodgrass has been passed fit for duty after suffering cramp in the closing stages of the 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa. Centre-back Michael Turner misses out again with the groin injury damaged against Reading.

Midfielder Bradley Johnson is likely to again be a key figure in Hughton's starting line up after wild speculation linking him with a summer switch to Swansea during the build-up.

'There has been absolutely no approach (from Swansea). I am aware of the story and I can tell you categorically there has been no approach,' said Hughton. 'I'm not quite sure where that type of story comes from, particularly at this stage of the season, but there is absolutely no truth in that story.'

Chris Martin finally departed for pastures new earlier this week after sealing a permanent deal to Derby, but Hughton insists decisions on the futures of two fellow loanees, Declan Rudd and James Vaughan, can wait.

Both Preston boss Simon Grayson and Huddersfield's Mark Robins have indicated they would like both to return next season.

'The only discussion or rather enquiry was for Declan from Preston and they have expressed an interest and would like to know what we plan to do with him next season,' confirmed Hughton. 'They are decisions we make at the end of the season and the summer period. As with most of those we leave them until we have finished our campaign here. I think any quotes you have heard from those managers is a testament to how well Declan and James have done. That was the reason we sent them on loan. I'm really delighted for Chris. He had a loan period and it was successful. I actually think the spell he had at Swindon set him up for Derby, physically.'