Hermann's back '“ but it won't be for long

The popular Icelandic defender was back at the club’s Eastleigh training ground yesterday – and in typically boisterous mood.

But the Blues boss has dismissed suggestions the 38-year-old is keen to earn a new deal at the club and insisted it is simply to stay fit.

Earlier this week his agent, Olafur Gardarsson, suggested the former Charlton man would be trying to prove he was worth another contract.

But while Hreidarsson has told Appleton he would be happy to help out and play for nothing if he was needed in an emergency, it appears he is simply keeping in shape before he returns to Iceland in November.

Appleton explained: ‘From Hermann’s point of view, I think he has made his mind up that he will go back to Iceland.

‘His family are over there already. In the meantime, he wants to stay fit and keep himself in shape.

‘It was a no-brainer from our point of view. He has a big affinity to the club and cares a lot about it. More importantly, he’s a good character to have.

‘He will certainly keep everyone’s chins up when he does something ridiculously stupid, as he always does.

‘So it works for both parties – he keeps himself fit and we get someone who is a big personality around the place.

‘But he won’t play.’

While many Blues fans were hopeful Hreidarsson might return for one last hurrah, it appears those hopes are over – unless there is a major injury crisis at the club.