Peterborough's Mark Cooper expects Preston interest

Cooper has managed just one win as Posh boss

Peterborough United boss Mark Cooper thinks one or two of his players are angling for a move to former Posh boss Darren Ferguson's Preston.

Ferguson has confirmed his interest in midfielder Paul Coutts, but claims he is yet to make an offer.

Cooper told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: "I would suggest one or two might like a move to Preston, but we've got a lot of lads who want to stay and fight.

"They are Peterborough players and they've got to give everything."

Coutts, 21, was left out of the squad to face Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday after news of Preston's interest broke.

However a deal is unlikely to be agreed ahead of Tuesday's match between the two sides.

Meanwhile, striker Aaron Mclean remains available after putting in a transfer request before Christmas.

Cooper says he is still hoping that the former Grays man may experience a change of heart.

"Rather than to sell, I'd prefer a fully focused Aaron Mclean who wants to go out and put a shift in because we can't afford anyone better," he said.

Posh are facing an injury crisis with George Boyd and Craig Mackail-Smith both severe doubts and Exodus Geohaghon and Gabby Zakuani already ruled out.

Zakuani is still struggling with a groin strain, while Geohaghon has a hamstring problem, Mackail-Smith has picked up a virus and Boyd has an ankle problem.

Cooper is set to hand out-of-favour Tommy Rowe a start of the left wing, but says it will be a huge blow to lose Boyd.

"He's our captain and top scorer so he is the one player we wouldn't want to lose," he said.

Chris Whelpdale will also be handed a start with Reuben Reid likely to partner Izale Mcleod up front, while Ryan Bennett will return from suspension in place of Geohaghon.

Ferguson spent almost three years at Posh prior to leaving the club in November following a 3-1 defeat by Newcastle.

Cooper says Ferguson's return will make little difference to the outcome of Tuesday night's match.

"It makes no difference to me; they're only allowed 11 men and so are we. So at a quarter to eight on Tuesday it's 11 versus 11 and we'll see what happens," he said.