"But he is still his usual dour self!" he jokes.
"He will be back on Monday and can then step up his training.
"I have heard he is really flying and working extremely hard," says Simon.
Of the other injuries, he explains:
"Leon Britton is back in training on Thursday after some medial knee ligament damage.
"Paul Kitson took a knock to the thigh in the reserves but we would like to think he will be all right for Saturday.
"Fredi Kanoute is training, though it is touch and go for him at Derby.
"He is training very well, but but it all depends on the next couple of days.
"Titi Camara is back in England and is progressing quite nicely - he has done a couple of ball sessions.
"Gary Charles is back in training after a slight calf strain."
However, the news on two central defenders - one young, one experienced - is still in abeyance.
Ian Pearce still does not know if he needs an operation.
"We are awaiting specialist reports on Ian Pearce and Izzie Iriekpen," says Simon.
Both players have seen Tom McAuliffe, the club's medical consultant, and are awaiting advice as to what will happen next.