Leeds United: Zaliukas aiming to propel himself into first team contention

The Lithuanian international centre-back, 29, who has penned a deal until the end of the season, featured for the U-21s in last Tuesday’s 3-3 draw with Sheffield Wednesday at Thorp Arch.

He has been earmarked for a start this evening by manager Brian McDermott, who saw his central defensive trio of Scott Wootton, Tom Lees and Jason Pearce turn in a collectively meek performance in Saturday’s 3-2 reverse at West Yorkshire neighbours Huddersfield Town.

Former Heart of Midlothian captain Zaliukas, who rejected chances to sign for Rangers and Queens Park Rangers to join United, made over 200 appearances for the Tynecastle outfit before being released in the summer and is desperate to make his mark on his new club – having impressed boss McDermott following a week-long trial.

His availability and vast experience represents a welcome and timely option for McDermott, more especially in the light of the disappointing defensive showing at the John Smith’s Stadium.

A good showing tonight should put the defender firmly in the fray for Saturday’s home encounter with Yeovil Town.

McDermott said: “He’s a player with lots of experience, he’s played for his country and he’s a good age for a centre-half. It’s fantastic to have him on board.”

Meanwhile, Aidan White’s loan transfer to Sheffield United is expected to be finalised either today or tomorrow.

The 22-year-old has featured just three times for United this season, making just two starts.

White rejected a loan move to Barnsley in early September, but with a known admirer in Nigel Clough now in charge of Sheffield United, he is ready to kick-start his campaign a few junctions down the M1 at Bramall Lane.

Ex-Derby County chief Clough was keen on signing White before he signed a new deal with Leeds in the summer of 2012 and has monitored his progress since.

On the credentials of White, Clough said: “We have made an enquiry for him.

“There’s quite a busy programme we have got in the FA Cup as well and one or two more in with a bit more quality might not do us any harm.

“He (White) is a good player, he plays anywhere up the left-hand side. He can play left back or one on and he’s got good quality.

“His career has stuttered a little bit in the last 18 months, but I still think he is a good player.”