Big Sam hopes for early Santa Cruz return.

Last updated : 16 April 2009 By Andy
The striker, who has been out for more than a month, had the joint washed out after tests in Germany. But Allardyce believes Santa Cruz could be back before the end of the season.

"I am not putting a time on it but it's a quick recovery so hopefully he won't be out for long," he said.

"The news is positive and we will see how the knee responds but the long-term prognosis is excellent."