Peterborough United manager believes ‘dead’ EFL Trophy tie at local rivals Cambridge United is still important

Both teams have already qualified from a four-team group, but the winners tonight will secure home advantage in the first knockout round. Ferguson is keen to avoid long journeys, especially as they involve travel on the day of the game in these Covid-19 times. Posh believe Nathan Thompson’s current hamstring issue is not helped by playing straight after a coach journey.

As things stand possible opponents for Posh in the next round include Exeter, Portsmouth and Cheltenham.

Ferguson said: “I am really pleased we have another game so soon after the FA Cup win on Saturday as it gives me the chance to get minutes into different players and some who were involved at Oxford. We have got players who need games and this is a great opportunity for them.

“This competition has been good for us this season as it has given younger players an opportunity and the two games we have played so far in the group stages have been entertaining and good to watch and I am sure this tie will be too.

“We also obviously want to win the game as it will secure home advantage in the first knockout stage of the competition.”

Posh have beaten League One rivals Burton Albion on penalties following a 3-3 draw and Fulham Under 21s 4-2 in their two previous group matches.

Goalkeeper Dan Gyollai, teenage centre-back Ronnie Edwards and attacking players Harrison Burrows, Idris Kanu and Flynn Clarke cam all expect to play tonight.

Possible starting line-up.

Gyollai

Mason, Edwards, Blake-Tracy.

Kanu, Reed, Hamilton, Burrows

Broom, Clarke.

Eisa.