Preview tomorrow’s clash with the Cobblers
The U’s welcome in-form Northampton Town to the Abbey Stadium this weekend in Sky Bet League Two action, kicking off 3pm.
Richard Money’s side will be keen to bounce back from last weekend, where they were left more than frustrated against Portsmouth, having seen a 1-0 first half lead flipped on its head by their high flying opponents after captain Mark Roberts had controversially been shown a red card during the half time break.
New loan signing Alie Sesay is set to make his first appearance for the club with Leon Legge joining Keith Keane, Josh Coulson and Chris Dunn on the sidelines through injury, whilst Elliot Omozusi and George Taft are also both doubts to be involved against the Cobblers.
Aiming to improve on last season’s mid-table finish, Northampton have made more than a steady start to the current Football League campaign on the pitch and arrive at the Abbey Stadium sat in eighth position and 21 points on the board.
Chris Wilder’s side are currently riding the crest of wave, having gone unbeaten in their last five Sky Bet League Two fixtures, which includes wins in their last three against Hartlepool, Wycombe and Millwall.
With Marc Richards as their top scorer on six goals, the enigmatic John-Joe O’Toole pulling the strings in midfield and the loan arrival of Darnell Furlong from QPR, the Cobblers are equipped with a blend of danger men that could prove to be a real threat to the U’s.
However, recent form is with Richard Money’s side who twice got the better of the Cobblers last with 2-1 home win in 2014 followed up with a 0-1 away win at Sixfields Stadium towards the tail end of last season. In fact United are unbeaten against Northampton since 2004.
Ahead of the game, Money explained his players have shown an impressive desire to put the events of last weekend behind them at the earliest opportunity, he said: “The players were really bright when they came in on Monday.
“Whatever sense of hurt they had from what happened last week has disappeared very quickly and training has been really bright this week.”
“We are on a run of particularly attractive fixtures and we know we will have to be at our best. I am sure Saturday will be exciting, it is not a local derby but they are just down the road and will probably bring over 1000 supporters.”
“If we play like we did in the first 45 minutes last Saturday and bring the supporters a blend of commitment, endeavour and attitude then I’m sure it will be a good afternoon for everyone.”
Meanwhile, Cambridge United youngster James Akintunde will not be involved this weekend as the club have secured him the opportunity to gain some precious game time under his belt through a one month loan to National League North side Brackley Town.
Tickets are still available online, with U’s fans able to make a £2 saving when purchasing in advance of match day. Click here to buy online. Meanwhile, tickets will be available on the gate all the way up to kick off.