Peterborough United are in Coca-Cola League One action against play-off hopefuls Scunthorpe United at London Road this evening (7.45pm) knowing that a victory will boost their automatic promotion hopes.

Following battling wins at Leyton Orient and Hartlepool United, Posh are now three points ahead of third placed Milton Keynes Dons while tonight's visitors improved their chances of staying in the play-offs with a 2-1 victory over Stockport County at the weekend.

TEAM NEWS
Posh are without defender Craig Morgan (toe) and Lee Frecklington (hamstring), while Jamie Day (back) is out for the rest of the season. Morgan is hoping to be back for the visit of Northampton Town.

Scunthorpe boss Nigel Adkins could be forced into a number of changes for his side`s game against Peterborough. Adkins has doubts over the availability of defenders Joseph Mills and Andrew Wright, who are struggling with knee and hamstring injuries respectively.

On-loan Arsenal youngster Henri Lansbury is also a doubt after picking up a hamstring injury, with winger Martyn Woolford also facing a late test on a thigh problem. Full-back Cliff Byrne, who made a surprising appearance in the weekend win over Stockport, is also unlikely to feature after picking up a back injury.

The Iron boss again has a worry over Garry Thompson, who has a stomach problem and is unlikely to play. Marcus Williams (metatarsal), Kenny Milne (knee) and Michael Lea (hamstring) are all still long term injury problems for Scunthorpe.

ONE TO WATCH
Gary Hooper has been in stunning form for Scunthorpe this season and reached the 25-goal mark in the recent win over Stockport. He has pace to burn, is strong on the ball and his finishing ability is second to none. Southend United will be rueing their decision to let him go last season.

MANAGER QUOTES
'It is another massive game for us and we know that a win would put us in a good position in the table, but Scunthorpe are a very good side. I am sure they will want to come out and have a go because they need the win too,' Ferguson said.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Scunthorpe United are set to sign a young striker from non-league football. He is 21-year-old George Donnelly who plays for Skelmersdale United in division one north of the Unibond League.A small fee is believed to have already been reached between the two clubs. He is unlikely to be involved tonight should the deal go through.