Douglas Close To Comeback But Thommo Setback

The midfielder was given a 70-minute run-out in a game involving United's academy players and he may be feature in the reserve team which plays at Sheffield Wednesday next Tuesday.

The Republic of Ireland international has not featured for the first team since damaging knee ligaments at Walsall 10 days before Christmas, but McAllister said: "He played 70 minutes against the kids and he's progressing well."

But Leeds have a new worry over Alan Thompson, who has suffered a thigh strain and looks unlikely to be available for Saturday's meeting with bottom-of-the-table Port Vale.

Thompson enjoyed an injury-free spell on loan with Hartlepool last month, making seven appearances, but he is back on the treatment table after yet another setback.