SCOTTISH winger Simon Lappin is back in York City's squad for the 'basement battles' with North Ferriby United – but Aidan Connolly will miss both games.

Manager Gary Mills has revealed that Lappin, who tore a calf muscle on his debut against Lincoln five weeks ago, returned to full training on Friday.

The former Norwich City and Cardiff City winger, 33, joined the Minstermen last month but has missed the last five games.

Mills said: "With a couple of days training under his belt, Simon will hopefully be back in contention for the Boxing Day game.

"I feel our midfield has been a lot stronger in the last couple of games but it will still be great to have him available."

Lappin, who played in the Premier League for Norwich, had been without a club since being released by St Johnstone in the summer.

"It's been a frustrating time for Simon and for me because he was my first real signing," said Mills. "He has not had the best of starts here because, unfortunately, he got injured late on in that first game.

"But he is back in full training and back in the squad. He has got a lot of ability and is a player who creates openings."

There was disappointing news, however, concerning Connolly who missed the goalless draw against Torquay United nine days ago with a thigh injury.

Mills says the 21-year-old, whose form has been monitored by Championship clubs including Reading this season, will not be involved against North Ferriby today or on New Year's Day.

Defender Lanre Oyebanjo will be missing for another two weeks following minor knee surgery and Danny Galbraith (heel) also remains sidelined.

On loan striker Jake Charles, meanwhile, looks set to return to Championship club Barnsley when his loan deal expires on New Year's Day.

The Welsh under-21 international has not even figured on the bench since making the last of his two appearances against Guiseley on November 29.

Mills said: "He played against Bromley but has not hit the ground running like I hoped he would. That is why he has not been involved."

Today's game at North Ferriby kicks-off at 12.30pm. The two clubs meet again at Bootham Crescent on New Year's Day, kick-off 3pm.