Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips has been offered the chance to step into the role vacated by the injured Adam Johnson.
Wright-Phillips looked bright and energetic during a late cameo appearance in the 3-0 victory against West Brom on Saturday.
And coach David Platt said: "He could be that player."
Next up is the derby against Manchester United on Saturday.
Only a week ago, former City academy player Wright-Phillips - who returned to Eastlands in 2008 after a spell with Chelsea - seemed be on on his way out of Eastlands but nothing materialised.
But with England star Johnson out for around three months with an ankle injury, the prospect of 29-year-old Wright-Phillips being involved regularly have improved.
Platt said: "What we had prior to January was a squad, when all fit, of 24 or 25 players and Shauny found himself out of it a few times.
"It did not work out for him in terms of moving away but he is a consummate pro. He has trained exceptionally well as he has done all season. He gives you a lot of pace and attacking ability.
"We are not stupid enough not to realise he might be important to us between now and the end of the season."
