MICHAEL Duff has played his first game since suffering multiple knee ligament damage in September.

The defender, who feared his season was over when he limped off against Crystal Palace, completed 90 minutes in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Crewe Alexandrea this week, starting at centre half and later switching to right back.

Although manager Owen Coyle has stressed the 29-year-old's comeback will be carefully monitored, it is a welcome boost for both club and player.

"I had envisaged him playing 45 minutes or 60, but to play 90 and come through unscathed was a big, big boost," said Coyle.

"If we get him back, not just now because he's still got a bit to go, but it'll be like a top class addition to the squad.

"He's been training for two weeks with the first team, equipped himself really well, but I just think, from a mental point of view, it was important for his confidence to know you can come through a competitive game."

Besart Berisha, who suffered a similar injury early in the season, did require an operation. Although the Albanian international is on the road to recovery, he is not expected to return until around April.