JONNY Wilkinson could begin his latest comeback from injury when Worcester visit Newcastle in the Guinness Premiership on New Year's Day.

World Cup hero Wilkinson has not played for more than six weeks, having undergone groin surgery in yet another fitness setback during a catalogue of injuries over the past two years.

His last England appearance came in the 2003 World Cup final, while he has only started four games for Newcastle this season.

The Falcons have no intention of rushing him back into action, but a run-out off the replacements' bench against Worcester would at least see him launch 2006 on a positive note.

"He was pretty close for the Leeds game," said Newcastle rugby director Rob Andrew whose team beat the bottom club 13-10 this week.

"We will see how we go today and Friday. We will not force him, as that would be stupid, but, equally, if he is right for Sunday he will take some part in the game."

Tickets for the clash will be available on the day with the current weather forecast predicting sunny conditions for Sunday.

More than 7,500 tickets have been sold, with a small number of seats left, while terrace places remain available for the 10,200 capacity Kingston Park. Kick-off is 2.30pm.

Mathew Tait's try made the difference as Newcastle halted a recent Leeds resurgence that left the Tykes pinned to the Premiership basement, two points behind fellow strugglers Northampton.

"The players responded magnificently," added Andrew. "Two days after Christmas, they have given everything for the club -- you cannot ask for any more than that."

But Leeds boss Phil Davies was left to reflect on his team's eighth league defeat from 10 starts.

They now face a Kingsholm appointment with Gloucester followed by a Headingley clash against in-form Bath.