LUCAS Radebe was expected to start his fightback to fitness against Liverpool reserves at York City's Bootham Crescent tonight (7pm).

The Leeds central defender has struggled to shake off the effects of operations on both knees that sidelined him at the end of last season.

In the summer he lost the captaincy of Leeds and South Africa, and having been automatic first choice for several years, is now battling to regain a first team place against fierce opposition from Rio Ferdinand, Dominic

Matteo, Jonathan Woodgate and Michael Duberry.

David O'Leary admits Radebe's knees have suffered so much wear and tear that the South African will have to be nursed through training.

The Leeds boss said: "Lucas will play against Liverpool and we'll see how he goes. If he comes through OK there are other reserve games coming up where he can build up his match fitness."

Radebe is expected to be joined in the starting line-up by fellow internationals Woodgate, Jason Wilcox and Stephen McPhail for tonight's FA Premier Reserve league (North) game.

Liverpool were not naming their squad to travel to York until later today.

After tonight, United's next reserve game at Bootham Crescent will be Manchester City next Tuesday.

Updated: 11:34 Tuesday, August 28, 2001