Jonathan Douglas was more than happy to take a major step in his bid to return to first team action on Tuesday night.

The Republic of Ireland international completed the full 90 minutes without any after-effects as the reserves drew 2-2 with Sheffield Wednesday at Stocksbridge.

"I feel very good," said Dougie. "In the first half I was a bit tender, but once I got into it, I got stronger in the second half.

"I'm just glad to be back playing, no one likes being out, and three months is a long time.

"I've been working hard with the physios and I'd like to give thanks to them. It's hard when you are out and the days are long. 

"I've been doing a lot of running with Harvey Sharman (physio). He joins in and that's a great boost. I owe Harvey, Donna, and Paul Perkins a great deal."

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With a first competitive game under his belt - he played 70 minutes in a practice match at Thorp Arch last week - Dougie is now hoping to step up his bid to return to the first team.

"My aim is to play a few games between now and the end of the season," he said. 

"I played 90 minutes on Tuesday and 70 last week. I hope to keep my fitness up and see what happens.

The first team are in action against Walsall at Elland Road on Saturday, and the next reserve clash is on Wednesday March 26 against Lincoln City at Elland Road (7pm).

"Saturday might be too soon," added Dougie. "But I'd like to get back in and around the squad.

"Prutts and Jonny Howson have probably been our two best players over the past few months, and I'll have to work my way back in."

You can see more from Dougie on LUTV...