The Posh manager admits it will be the biggest game of their lives for many members of his inexperienced squad, but he's backing them to come through a high-pressure game with flying colours.

Leeds have won their last six competitive fixtures and sit third in the table ahead of their visit to the city.

Ferguson said: "We are excited rather than nervous about facing the biggest team in the division. Leeds are very good, have some excellent players and they will be backed by thousands of passionate fans.

"But not only do I have a lot of confidence in the ability of my players, I have total confidence in their temperament.

"We have some young players in the team, but they tend to play without fear anyway, while the likes of George Boyd and Craig Mackail-Smith will rise to the occasion.

"It will be the biggest game many of them will have played in, but all of us are looking forward to the challenge. These are the games that should excite players and fans – this sort of match is why we strived so hard to get out of League Two.

"It's a big occasion, but it's just three points. If we can keep our little run going by winning we will get loads of confidence for the rest of the season."

Posh centre-back Gaby Zakuani is expected to be fit for the weekend despite limping off during the first-half of last Saturday's win at MK Dons. Zakuani's pace will be crucial to combat the threat of Leeds' top scorer Jermaine Beckford.

Midfielder Dean Keates is rated at 50/50 to return after missing the last two matches with a knee injury. A scan showed no cartilage damage, but Keates has struggled to twist and turn in training.

Posh goalkeeper Mark Tyler has joined Championship side Watford on a month's loan.

Tyler is in the Watford squad for their league match at Burnley this evening. Posh will have young James McKeown on the substitutes' bench on Saturday.

Ferguson added: "Adrian Boothroyd (the Watford manager) came on yesterday as he knows Mark very well. I have said I won't stand in his way if a good offer comes in and Mark wanted to go.

"I'm not sure if he will start tonight, but we wish him all the best. I have no problems with having James on the bench for us."

Tyler was placed on the transfer list in the summer after losing his first-team place to England Under 21 keeper Joe Lewis.

Full-back Danny Blanchett had a loan move to Blue Square Premier League side Northwich Victoria scuppered at the last minute today.

Blnanchett had agreed a one-month loan, but the move was scrapped as Northwich manager Dino Maamria was placed on 'gardening leave' by his club.

Blanchett will now play for Posh Reserves in this evening's Combination League fixture at Wycombe (7pm). Sergio Torres will also make an appearance against his old club alongside senior players Kieran Charnock, Charlie Lee and Scott Rendell.