Striker Jon Obika played 60 minutes as the reserves drew 1-1 with Sky Bet Championship side Preston North End on Tuesday afternoon.
Obika suffered a pre-season hamstring injury which ruled him out until Christmas. With an hour in the bank the forward is close to making a full return to the squad.
A second-half goal from Freddie Price earned the Shrimps a point in their first group stage game of this season’s Central League Cup.
Aaron Wildig, Josh McPake and Kyle Letheren who have all been out with injuries of their own recently, also played a part in Tuesday’s draw.
Manager Stephen Robinson said: “It is great to see Jon [Obika] getting minutes, he has had a lengthy injury and has worked hard to get back to where he is now.
“His attitude and application has been brilliant, he still has a bit to go before we can really get the best out of him, but I am delighted that he has managed to play 60 minutes against a tough opposition such as Preston North End.
“Same with a few others, we are heading into a really busy schedule and I will need everybody in my squad throughout that run, so to have options coming back is pleasing.”