STEPHEN McPhail continues the long haul back to full fitness when Leeds reserves take on Newcastle at York City tonight (7pm).

Republic of Ireland midfielder McPhail had his first taste of action for five months when Leeds' second string defeated Manchester United reserves last week, watched by a bumper Bootham Crescent crowd of 4,190.

He turned out for the opening 45 minutes with no ill effects and is ready for more as he eyes a possible Champions League appearance against Spanish champions Deportivo La Coruna next month.

Reserve team coach Roy Aitken said: "Stephen will definitely be involved tonight. He was very pleased with the way things went against Manchester United, he is ahead of schedule and needs games now."

McPhail had Achilles surgery in December and hasn't played for the first team since October 21.

Aitken poured cold water on suggestions that Michael Bridges could make a comeback tonight. Bridges has been out since injuring ankle ligaments against Besiktas in Turkey on October 18, and Aitken said: "Michael is only doing light training at the moment. It is far too soon to give him a game in the reserves.

"If he plays in any sort of game this season it will be a bonus.

"England winger Jason Wilcox is again expected to play but Warren Feeney, who figured in the 2-0 win against Manchester United reserves, has since joined Bournemouth on loan.

Updated: 09:24 Tuesday, March 27, 2001