Islamic State militants fighting a rear guard action blew up a key bridge to cover their retreat, it has been reported.
Zerga bridge, which stood near the town of Tikrit (hometown of former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein) was blown by retreating IS forces. The bridge was a key link between Tuz Khurmatu and Tikrit.
Coalition troops say they took back four villages on Thursday and five more on Friday.
The city of Tikrit itself has been under firm IS control since the beginning of their offensive, almost four months ago. The Iraqi army has attempted to regain control several times, but IS forces have stood their ground