As Brad Johnson returns from his sabbatical by the seaside, could Ben Parker be on his way south?

Johnson is back training with Leeds after a three-month loan-spell at Brighton, managed by ex-United star Mickey Adams.

I remember reading a lengthy article at the weekend on how Brad claimed he would be welcomed back at Brighton, should he not fit in to Simon Grayson's reckoning or be eager to move on elsewhere!

In tonight's YEP he appears to be saying he is here for the duration, as long as Leeds want him!

Do I detect some agent engineered hyperbole here?

Johnson was technically signed by Dennis Wise, a year ago for around £200,000 from Northampton. He was a regular fixture in Gary McAllister's side during the 07/08 run-in and play-offs but mysteriously fell-out of favour with Macca at the beginning of this term, sparking rumours of a rift between the pair.

This was intensified when during the slump which ultimately cost Macca his job, the Scot failed to activate a "recall clause" in the Brighton deal.

In 10 appearances for the Seagulls, Johnson scored 5 goals and reportedly attracted interest from Premiership clubs. It is widely believed that had Macca survived the Christmas cull then Johnson would have left during the transfer-window.

Lets hope that he can show that sort of determination and form to force his way back into the reckoning, but the decision is ultimately Simon Grayson's.

On the subject of Brighton, reports today suggest that Ben Parker could be on his way to the Withdean Stadium.

Parker, who has made 13 appearances for the whites' this term has been edged-out since Alan Sheehan's return from injury and the emergence of teenage starlet Aidan White, who at one time was attracting as much hype as Fabian Delph.

Parker, aged 21 may now decide to cut his United losses and run having spent lengthy spells out on loan at Bradford and Darlington during his Leeds career.

Meanwhile, Leeds look almost certain to lose out on Alan Gow who they were reportedly interested in signing. The player, who was on-loan at Blackpool during Simon Grayson's stint there is apparently close to joining Championship leaders Wolves.

Photo: Action Images via Reuters