Posh boss Ferguson can't predict how Cobblers will line up in big derby clash

Peterborough manager Darren Ferguson cannot predict how Jon Brady's Cobblers will line up in Friday's big derby clash under the lights at London Road.

Ferguson has done his homework on Friday's opponents and is impressed by their organisation and discipline, but Brady's tinkering means he will have to be ready for all possibilities.

Town played 4-2-2-2 against Bristol Rovers last time out but started with three at the back at Hull City on Easter Monday and played more of a 4-4-2 diamond in the previous game against Shrewsbury.

“Northampton promoted a manager from the academy and he’s done a good job,” Ferguson told the Peterborough Telegraph. “He certainly has his team well organised and he will certainly have them ready to fight on Friday.

“I’ve watched a lot of their recent games. They seem to have played five different formations in the last five matches so guessing what they will use against us is difficult.

“What I do know is they will get the ball forward quickly and they will try and make it a messy game.

“It’s going to be a very difficult game for us, one of the hardest we have left, and we will have to be ready for a battle. It will be a lot tougher than last week’s game against another team (Swindon) fighting for their lives. We were comfortable in the game at Northampton, but this one will be far more competitive.

“We will definitely have to look after the ball well. That will be the key to winning what is another vital match. The path to promotion is set out right in front of us now. We have four of the next five matches at home and we need to cash in that advantage.”

Unlike Brady, Ferguson has very few injury concerns going into Friday's game.

He added: "To have almost a fully fit squad in April is fantastic news. Everyone apart from Ronnie Edwards is fit now and he should be back for the game against Gillingham.

“Sammie (Szmodics) had an injection in his shoulder on Monday and he should be fine.

“We have six huge games to go and we will need everyone fit and firing to make sure we get where we want to go.”