Peterborough United manager Darren Ferguson: ‘Saturday was a shambles and I expect to see an immediate reaction’

Posh boss Darren Ferguson during the FA Cup defeat at the hands of Chorley. Photo: Davod Lowndes.

And now the Posh boss expects a positive reaction in tonight’s League One clash against AFC Wimbledon at Plough Lane (December 2, 6pm kick off). A win could propel Posh back to the top of League One - leaders Hull City have a tricky home game against Doncaster - and that would lift much of the gloom caused by a shambolic weekend display.

Posh, who dropped to third place after Lincoln’s win over Wigan last night, have been boosted by the return to fitness of top scorer Jonson Clarke-Harris and experienced defender Nathan Thompson. Both will start tonight with Clarke-Harris expected to replace Mo Eisa and Thompson possibly replacing Dan Butler who is struggling with a groin problem.

Thompson’s return could persuade Ferguson to revert to a flat back four with Frazer Blake-Tracy moving across the backline to left-back.

Alex Woodyard (left) in action for Posh.

“We will have two strong characters back in the side which can only help,” Ferguson stated. “I might make other changes, but it won’t be nine or 10. I can’t do that.

“Saturday was a shambles. I had the players back in on the Sunday morning as there was no way I could let things stew until Monday.

“I had to get things off my chest. It’s been dealt with now and we move on.

“The players have been left in no uncertain terms that standards must get back to the levels of earlier in the season. It’s important to also remember we were very good against Plymouth in our last League One game.

“I expect a reaction and I am confident I will get one.

“Wimbledon always make life hard for us. I’m glad we are not playing at their old ground as had no luck in our last two trips there.

“It will still be tough though as they like to get the ball forwards quickly and that’s something we will have to deal with.”

Wimbledon will be playing their fifth game in 12 days and their fourth game in their last eight matches. Former Posh skipper Alex Woodyard joined the Dons in the summer and is expected to play.