Sheehan is on the verge of full fitness after a month on the sidelines but Leeds boss Gary McAllister will not risk another prolonged absence by allowing the left-back to make a premature comeback.

The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international was left out of United's squad for Friday night's FA Cup tie against Northampton Town, and he is not expected to play any part in Tuesday's Carling Cup match at Derby County.

Sheehan tore a muscle during last month's Johnstone's Paint Trophy tie against Rotherham United.

But he had being suffering from hamstring problems in the lead up to the match and McAllister is likely to involve him in a reserve team fixture before re-introducing him to his first-team plans.

McAllister said: "He's chomping at the bit and in his mind he thinks he's ready.

"But this time I've got to get him a week's training and a reserve match rather than throwing him straight back in."

Sheehan began the season as United's first-choice left-back but was sent-off during Leeds' 2-1 win at Swindon Town and has not featured in any of their last seven games as a result of his injury.