Gary McAllister had a long but rewarding trip to Carlisle on Tuesday night where he saw the home side play out an energy-sapping goalless draw against Coca-Cola League One leaders Swansea.

While the point keeps second-placed Carlisle six points clear of the chasing pack, McAllister will have seen enough to know that resurgent Leeds have a good chance of beating them on Saturday.

Swansea dominated most of the match and, but for some poor finishing and the fact that they hit the woodwork three times, would have notched their 25th win of the season.

And McAllister will have enjoyed the spectacle of watching his next opponents having to work so hard just days before they travel to Elland Road.

There was more good news for the Leeds boss today when Leon Constantine marked his return after a loan period at Oldham with a goal in the reserves against York City.

With Tresor Kandol struggling for form, that strike might well be enough to get Constantine a place on the bench against the Cumbrians.

* Leeds have shelved talks with central defender Rui Marques until the summer, when his contract expires and he will be a free agent.

Talks broke down with the Angola international's representatives, whose valuation was higher than Leeds' based on offers they claim they have from Championship clubs.