NEALE McDermott has been challenged to fight for his place in the Darlington starting XI by manager David Hodgson.

McDermott has yet to start a game for Quakers since joining on a one-month loan from Fulham last week.

The 20-year-old - son of Newcastle coach Terry - has made two substitute appearances in the back-to-back defeats to Peterborough and Shrewsbury.

But, having made 11 starts during a successful loan spell at Swindon earlier this season, Hodgson has thrown down the gauntlet for McDermott to enjoy similar fruition with Quakers.

"He took a little while to get settled in at Swindon, but once he got into the side he stayed there," said Hodgson. "He chipped in with two or three goals and became an asset to them.

"Now Neale has to be looking at doing the same with us. He's a great little player who doesn't do anything out of the ordinary, but effectively.

"He picks a pass out, knows when to make a forward run and is more than likely to get a goal."

McDermott was recalled by Fulham boss Chris Coleman in December when a bid from an unnamed club was tabled for the former Newcastle United trainee.

But, after a move failed to materialise, Hodgson stepped in ahead of Swindon to sign the Tynesider.

Hodgson revealed it was thanks to McDermott's father - a former Liverpool team-mate of the Quakers' boss - that the move eventually went through.

"There was a communication breakdown with an agent when we went for Neale so Terry stepped in," said Hodgson.

"I've spoken to his Dad on a couple of occasions and obviously he's interested to see how Neale is doing here.

"I told Terry that we've been happy with his lad and he will get his chance."

However, McDermott is unlikely to make his full bow at Leyton Orient tomorrow.

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