GARY Neville earned a comeback bonus with United's Reserves last night - a goal.

The Reds skipper successfully negotiated his latest return with the club's second string in a 2-2 draw against Everton at Widnes's Halton Stadium.

Neville, who has been on the sidelines with a troublesome ankle injury since last March, came through 45 minutes unscathed.

Neville, who celebrates his 33rd birthday next month, has concentrated his rehabilitation efforts on the training ground since his only previous action this season, against Stockport County in the Manchester Senior Cup back in early November, in an effort to ensure that his fitness was at the highest possible level ahead of this latest return to action.

He was due to feature in last month's Champions League dead-rubber against Roma but was forced to pull out after experiencing pain in his ankle, which left United boss Sir Alex Ferguson fearing a major delay in the long-serving full-back's comeback plans.

However, Ferguson reported the fresh problem was merely due to scar tissue and Neville was given the green light to step up training,

Attack

Neville marked his return with a well-taken goal to help put United back in the game after they slipped behind to a couple of early Everton strikes.

Victor Anichebe gave Everton the lead after 12 minutes and James Vaughan doubled the advantage five minutes later.

Neville then joined the attack to score with a low shot.

United could have been level just before the break when they were awarded a penalty after Febian Brandy had been stopped in his tracks by John Irving.

The Everton player received his marching orders, but United failed to take advantage when Ritchie Jones's spot-kick was blocked by keeper John Ruddy.

Neville, who reported just a little stiffness after his stint, was replaced at half-time along with Craig Cathcart and Danny Simpson as United introduced a trio of substitutes.

Sean Evans grabbed a point for United, in the 63rd minute, with a cracking shot.