In pre-season, McNeil was then scouted by Burnley and Crewe after a fine midfield display against a strong Manchester City side. He was offered a week trial at Burnley in which he completed, and then he was asked to stay longer because Burnley had liked what they had seen. He stayed for a total of three weeks, playing in the reserve league before an injury brought the trial to an end. McNeil was told "go back to Altrincham and get fit and we will come and have another look". He then got fit, played a few first team games but couldn't hold a regular place down and was loaned out to Woodley Sports.