Doncaster defender Sean McDaid is closing in on a long-awaited first-team return after putting his injury nightmare behind him.

The 23-year-old defender has been sidelined since April 2008 after dislocating his knee in a practice game. He was close to a return last season, but broke down and required further surgery.

Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll said: "I think there have been dark moments for him. He's been through a lot has Sean. He came back and he was flying and then we found that there was an underlying problem.

"We thought it was one he may be able to live with, but his knee blew up after a routine training session.

"The surgeon then found out the root of the problem which has made his rehab longer than it should have been. Once they went in and found out exactly what it was, it was just a matter of time before he got back."

O'Driscoll added Harrogate-born McDaid could be loaned out to hone his match fitness over the next few weeks.