In Pictures: Corrie's shock Tracy plot

Tracy Barlow makes her long-awaited return to Coronation Street tonight, setting in motion a chain of events which ultimately sees her viciously attacked on New Year's Eve.

The scheming murderess - played by Kate Ford - has spent three years behind bars for killing Charlie Stubbs, but a surprise twist sees her released pending a retrial as the forensics expert who worked on her case has been discredited.

Deirdre's wayward daughter wastes no time before making her presence known on the street, but within a week, it seems that Tracy has pushed someone too far as she is found lying in a pool of blood in the Barlows' back yard.

Steve and Becky McDonald are high on the list of suspects following the attack as Tracy makes life hell for both of them following her return to the cobbles - and Steve is the one who has blood on his hands on the night of the incident.

Gail McIntyre is also in the frame as Tracy's recent attempt to frame her for murder gives her a strong motive for a revenge attack. The pair have a furious brawl in The Rovers in the build-up to New Year's Eve, but whether Gail will take things further remains to be seen.

Other possible culprits include David Platt and Nick Tilsley, who have witnessed the superbitch's terrible treatment of their mother. Additionally, both find themselves caught up in Tracy's hunt for a man in the coming days.

Tracy's nasty ways also upset a number of other Weatherfield residents following her return, meaning that 2011 on the cobbles begins with a big mystery. Who is responsible for the shock attack? And who will be arrested as Tracy fights for life?

Click through the gallery below for a glimpse of the drama in store in the next few episodes of Coronation Street: