Telfer's steady performance in Wednesday night's friendly between Leeds and Galway United strengthened the possibility that McAllister will follow up the defender's trial by offering him a contract at Elland Road, and Richardson would welcome the acquisition of the 37-year-old Scot.

Doubts existed over Telfer's future last season after he cut short his contract with Bournemouth to undergo surgery on a foot problem, but his fitness caused him no problems during his 73-minute appearances against Galway.

The former Celtic full-back played out of position in the centre of defence while Richardson captained Leeds in his favoured right-back role, and both players are expected to be named on the substitutes' bench against Bray Wanderers tomorrow – the second match of United's pre-season tour – as McAllister offers a run-out to other members of his squad.

Richardson, who is also vying with Scott Gardner for possession of the right-back position on the first day of the season, said: "Paul's been in the game a long time and he brings a whole lot of experience with him.

"Everyone likes a bit of competition. There's Scott, and if we sign Telfer then he can play right-back as well. That can only mean good things, and that players are playing to their potential."

Richardson has been one of United's more convincing performers during their pre-season friendlies against Galway and York City, but McAllister is keen to ensure that his entire touring party secure an extended appearance during the club's trip around southern Ireland.

Leeds' starting line-up at Carlisle Grounds, the home of Bray Wanderers, will include most or all of the players named in reserve at Terryland Park, and Gardner may have the chance to replace Richardson at right-back against the eircom Premier Division side.

Gardner – another player produced by United's academy – made a 17-minute outing on Wednesday after securing his inclusion on the tour to Eire with a composed outing at York City last week, and he looks likely to follow Jonathan Howson and Ben Parker in fighting for a first-team place during the coming season.

Tomorrow's line-up may also see a first pre-season appearance from Angolan centre-back Rui Marques while Lubomir Michalik, David Prutton and Jonathan Douglas are all expected to take their place in United's team.