Shane Higgs, Leeds’ ‘forgotten’ goalkeeper, is back in training but United manager Simon Grayson is still refusing to estimate a time for his return to match action.

Former Cheltenham keeper Higgs has been out since October with a recurring thigh problem.

The injury had affected him before he arrived at Elland Road last summer but he started the season ahead of Casper Ankergren in the pecking order and showed excellent form before the problem returned.

Higgs has had several injections and visits to specialists and at one stage there were rumours that he would not play again this season.

Grayson said: “Shane has been back on the training pitch this week but he can’t kick the ball long distances yet.

“We won’t rush him, especially as Casper has been in fine form and Alan Martin is also available.”

Meanwhile, defender Ben Parker – who has not played since injuring a hamstring in the opening game of the season against Exeter – has had another slight setback on the road to a full recovery.

He suffered a knock on the knee in training and although the injury swelled up and prevented him from playing in the reserves this week, it is not thought to be serious.

Grayson said: “It has been one of those frustrating seasons for Ben. We would love to have him back but he needs reserve games after being out for so long.”