Scunthorpe v Barnsley: Johnson puts his trust in Tykes’s youngsters

Johnson’s pre-match fears of an ‘After the Lord Mayor’s Show’ display at Rochdale on Saturday, following their exhilarating Capital One Cup display which almost shocked Everton three days earlier, unfortunately materialised.

The Reds turned in a jaded performance in a 3-0 defeat, with head coach Johnson likely to make changes this evening.

Given a hectic fixture schedule for his young side, you would probably be right in thinking that Johnson would have preferred a breather this week.

Moreso when you factor in they have played extra-time in two cup ties this season and fitted in a midweek trip to Millwall.

Johnson is dealing with the cards he has been dealt with, although he can be consoled by the fact that an extra 30 minutes won’t be on the agenda tonight.

Johnson, whose side are making their second trip to Glanford Park already this season after their penalty shoot-out success there in the first round of the Capital One Cup exactly three weeks ago, said: “Supporters probably knew that Saturday wasn’t a usual performance from us in terms of our energy levels and that is what cost us.

“Whoever produced the fixture list sat at home on their computer won’t be getting a Christmas card from me, that’s for sure.

“It is a big test. But I trust the group.”

Last six games: Scunthorpe LLWLDD; Barnsley WWWDLL

Referee: B Toner (Lancashire).

Last time: Scunthorpe 1 Barnsley 1 AET; August 11, 2015; Capital One Cup.