United manager Simon Grayson is hoping to welcome Billy Paynter and Robert Snodgrass back to match action early next week.

The duo returned to training this week after injury lay-offs, and Grayson says he is pleased with how both players have adapted.

Summer signing Billy hasn't played since he scored in Kosice in July while Rob was the victim of a crude challenge in Norway later that same month.

But a behind-closed-doors game is pencilled in for Tuesday and Grayson is hoping both players will be included.

"They've been back in training for five days or so now," he said.

"I've been really pleased with the progress they have made and it's great to have them back with us.

"They've both been out for six weeks so Saturday will definitely come to soon because they need to build up their match fitness, but all things permitting they will play in a game we have arranged fror Tuesday."