Peterborough United defender Daniel Blanchett looks set to start in Tuesday night's fixture against Milton Keynes Dons in the second round of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

Blanchett had been injured since the summer. First of all he required a double hernia operation and then sustained an ankle injury but is looking forward to getting back to first team action.

'It's been a long time since I have played in competitive action, stretching back to last season, so to be involved at MK Dons will be an exciting prospect for me. I am feeling really fit at this moment in time and I have had three reserve games in the last three weeks so it's time to kick on now,' said Blanchett.

Blanchett found it difficult during the pre-season as he underwent an operation and missed the trip to Marbella. His fitness during the summer suffered because of his injuries but the Posh youngster now believes he can take his chance and impress manager Darren Ferguson.

'I have now got my injury sorted and I just want to put in a good performance at Milton Keynes and see where that takes me. It is certainly an impressive place to make my return, a new stadium and tough opposition, but that is what football is all about and I can't wait for the game,' added Blanchett.

Posh have a number of injury doubts ahead of the game. Shane Blackett is still out with a knee injury which has led to Blanchett being given his chance to start.

'With Shane Blackett injured it does give me a chance to try and stake a claim for a place within the first team at left back or wing back and I am certainly up for the challenge.'

Posh look to progress in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy on Tuesday at MK Dons (7.45pm).