Peterborough United manager warns his players to ignore Oxford’s slow start to the season, plus the predicted Posh starting line-up

Posh host last season’s losing League One finalists at the Weston Homes Stadium on Saturday (October 17).

Oxford’s 3-1 defeat at Gillingham last Saturday was a third in four matches. They arrive at Posh sitting 21st, although they have only played one home game.

In contrast fifth-placed Posh are seeking a third straight League One win.

But Ferguson said: “I watched Gillingham v Oxford and it was a strange result given how the game went. Oxford created so many chances it was remarkable they only scored once.

“Sometimes losing in play-offs can affect you at the start of the following season and I have no doubt Oxford will be up there challenging for promotion at the end of the season.

“They have good technical players and strong attacking players. They have plenty of ability out wide so it should a good and close game on Saturday.”

Oxford won 4-1 at Accrington and lost 2-0 at Lincoln in their other League One away matches this season.

Ferguson’s wish to see Oxford live at home to Crewe on Tuesday night was scuppered by a late postponement as the Railwaymen suffered a positive Covid test within their squad.

Ferguson is expected to recall Taylor to resume last season’s successful midfield partnership with Reece Brown. Ethan Hamilton will therefore step down.

Expected Posh line-up.

(4-2-3-1)

Pym

Thompson, Kent, Beevers, Butler.

Brown, Taylor.

Ward, Szmodics, Dembele.

Clarke-Harris.