Dons must be prepared for physical Northampton threat

MK Dons will have to curtail Northampton's physical style of play if they are to progress in the Papa John's Trophy tonight (Tuesday).

Assistant manager Luke Williams highlighted Northampton's strong approach to games under Keith Curle, particularly when the sides met back in November when they shared a 0-0 draw at the PTS Academy Stadium.

After three good performances against Bristol Rovers, Swindon and Burnley, Williams says Dons will find a different challenge against Cobblers, but have learned from their last meeting of where they can capitalise.

He said: "It's always tough, Northampton are always ready for the physical challenge. The conditions will be difficult for us to play football on the ground as much as we'd like, so we'll have to compete on all fronts.

"In the last game, we had so many chances and Northampton had to soak up a lot of pressure but they looked really happy to do so. We're going to have to try and break them down if they do that again, and if they come at us, we'll have to defend against some direct football which they're excellent at at times. We have to be able to cope with that."

The sides meet for a third time this season on Tuesday, and for the second time in the Papa John's Trophy with a place in the last eight in the offing for the victor and a game closer to Wembley.

"Everyone wants to play at Wembley," Williams continued. "They boys are aware we're getting closer. We're out of the FA Cup which we're disappointed about but it narrows our focus to the league campaign and this competition. It's a brilliant opportunity to go and play at the best ground in the world."