Carlos Logan has been told he will not require surgery on an Achilles injury, allaying fears the Darlington winger could face more time on the sidelines.

The 19-year-old returned to training yesterday after being told by a specialist that, despite floating bone, the problem would not require an operation. Logan has not played since limping off at Northampton on October 1.

Brian Close and Clark Keltie have both endured lengthy lay-offs with similar problems, prompting concerns Logan could face a similar spell on the treatment table.

However, after being given the go-ahead to resume light training, the former Manchester City winger is expected to make his long-awaited return against Wycombe a week tomorrow.

Manager David Hodgson admits Logan's five-match absence has been difficult to endure, given his shortage of left-sided options.

Logan made an instant impact when he arrived during the summer as a direct replacement for Jason St Juste, earning a short-term deal until the end of December. Hodgson is hopeful Logan can rediscover his early-season form.

"It was disappointing to lose Carlos because he was just starting to get back into his stride at Northampton," said Hodgson.

"He was electrifying at the beginning of the season and hopefully we will soon see him back to his best again."

Meanwhile, Bristol City boss Gary Johnson has refused to expand on Hodgson's interest in taking striker Michael Bridges to Darlington on-loan.

Hodgson has enquired about the availability of Bridges, who has scored just once in 13 appearances this season.

"There is nothing official concerning Michael at the moment so I cannot comment," said Johnson.

* Leeds boss Kevin Blackwell has confirmed his interest in bringing Manchester United's Liam Miller to Elland Road on loan.

''There's been no further developments,'' Blackwell said.

''We're working on a couple areas but there's nothing further to say at this stage.''