The club have so far used the competition they won last year as an opportunity to field many of their fringe squad members.

But they still managed to outclass similar under-strength teams put out by Aston Villa and Arsenal.

The manager netted five goals in those two games, although Tuesday's game is likely to see him up against a first choice Premiership defence at Selhurst Park.

But he says he wants to win just as much as Wimbledon - not least because a club record 20 match unbeaten run is on the line.

Former Dons midfielder Dennis Wise returns after a four-match suspension for his two-footed assault when the Villa match was already won.

Recent signing Bjarne Goldbaek is likely to make way for Dan Petrescu for the tie but fans will not be surprised if the Italian manager springs a few other surprises.

Wimbledon centre back Chris Perry should play despite receiving a dead leg last Saturday and the Dons also welcome back a midfielder returning from suspension - Michael Hughes.

Sunderland v Luton

Tuesday night's other tie is an all-Nationwide affair, although a Luton victory at the Stadium of Light would be a major surprise against a Sunderland side seemingly heading for promotion with ease.

Boss Peter Reid has one injury worry with 20-year-old striker Michael Bridges pulling out of training yesterday with a slight Achilles problem.

Their opponents return with former Sunderland striker Phil Gray looking to add to the goal which accounted for Barnsley in the last round.