Andre Ayew: Swansea City forward will return from hamstring injury this season

Andre Ayew has scored once in his last eight Swansea appearances but is a key player for Steve Cooper

Andre Ayew will play a part in Swansea City's Championship play-off push after scans showed he has suffered only a mild hamstring injury.

Ayew missed Tuesday's home loss to Queens Park Rangers after he limped off in last weekend's draw with Wycombe.

Swansea's 15-goal top scorer is doubtful for next Sunday's trip to Reading, but should return for Derby County's visit to Wales on 1 May.

"It could have been worse," said Swansea head coach Steve Cooper.

"Hamstring injuries can be nasty and it could have ruled him out for the remainder of the season, but it won't do that.

"It's a grade one. He's unlikely for Reading, hopefully okay for Derby. Whether he's ready for Sunday, we'll have to see in a few days or so."

Ayew had missed only one league game all season before watching the QPR loss from the stands.

Swansea's automatic promotion hopes are all but over after the Rangers defeat because second-placed Watford won at Norwich City.

Cooper's team, who have lost five of their last eight games, are nine points adrift of Watford with only three regular-season games remaining, and the Hornets have a vastly superior goal difference.

Swansea go to Watford on 8 May before a probable play-off campaign. The Swans are nine points clear of seventh-place Reading, who have a game in hand at Luton on Wednesday.

Without Ayew, Cooper is short of options in attack.

Wayne Routledge led the line against QPR while youngster Liam Cullen came off the bench for the second game in a row.

Jamal Lowe and Morgan Whittaker are also options to start up front, but there is no natural centre-forward at Cooper's disposal.