SEAN Davis, Sam Ricketts and Tom Eaves all came through unscathed after making their long awaited playing return for the reserves yesterday.

The trio turned out for John Henry’s reserve team in a 1-1 draw at Newcastle United, where Michael O’Halloran earned a point with a late strike.

Davis has not played a competitive first team game in 26 months since damaging his articular knee cartilage in August 2009.

He got through 45 minutes against the Magpies before being substituted, and while his appearance is undoubtedly a step in the right direction, the midfielder will know from experience that he is still some way off a return to the Premier League.

Davis had been on the comeback trail ahead of the 2010/11 season, only to pick up another knee problem playing against Manchester City in the Senior Cup, which required yet more surgery and ruled him out of action for 11 months.

A first team return looks closer for Wales international Ricketts, who has already been back in full training for a fortnight.

It is hoped the full-back could be available for selection before the turn of the New Year after featuring for 70 minutes of yesterday’s game.

Young striker Eaves has not featured since breaking his foot in the club’s tour of the US this summer.

The 19-year-old was on the fringes of Coyle’s senior squad at the time of his injury and come on as a half time substitute for Jack Sampson.