NEW signing Peter Leven could make his Oxford United debut when they host an Everton XI in tonight’s pre-season friendly at the Kassam Stadium.

Midfielder Leven, 27, hasn’t played a game since signing from MK Dons as he completed his recovery from the metatarsal injury he suffered towards the end of last season.

Although he is unlikely to start against Everton, Wilder said he was hoping to give the former Rangers youngster some valuable game time.

“He may play a part, said Wilder, who gives a late fitness test to midfielder Simon Heslop ahead of the visit of the Toffees.

“Pete has been working really hard in training, so hopefully we can get him on the pitch.”

Leven, who was given the all-clear to train again after a scan, admitted it had been frustrating watching from the sidelines as his teammates have put together an unbeaten pre-season run of seven matches.

Defender Harry Worley is awaiting the results of a scan on the knee he injured in Tuesday’s 2-0 win against Championship side Birmingham, though Wilder is optimistic that the centre back will be back in action soon.

However, Tony Capaldi the U’s summer capture from Morecambe, is unlikely to face Everton, as he is struggling with a back injury.

Also missing is Paul McLaren, who is ruled out with a calf strain.

Wilder said: “It’s slow progress with Paul, but if he’s not ready then we just have to get on with it – we don’t want any heroes (playing with an injury) against Everton.”

The Toffees, who are playing a friendly away to Birmingham tomorrow, are expected to field a side including a host of their best young players.

But Wilder warned his players that it will still be tough, despite the lack of any big names in the Everton line-up.

“When you are a Premier club in the top eight in the country, all the players are going to be decent. There will be some talented youngsters out there.”

Alan Stubbs will take charge of the Everton team, which will include striker Magaye Gueye, their top-scorer in pre-season with three goals, midfielder Ross Barkley and attacking pair Conor McAleny and Apostolos Vellios all of whom played a part in both games on their US tour.

  • UNITED have ended their interest in Northern Ireland striker Liam Boyce, who has just completed a week’s trial at United from Werder Bremen.