Stanton could make shock return

Stanton has sat out the last two months with a knee injury sustained against Shrewsbury on October 14 and could find himself on the substitute's bench at Hillsborough tonight as United battle for the right to play Barnsley in the Third Round of the FA Cup.

Club manager Brian Laws said: "Don't be surprised if he is there. If he gives me 15 minutes then he gives me 15 minutes, I may even start him."

Regardless of Stanton's availability the Iron defence will be boosted by the return of Cliff Byrne from his one match ban, he is likely to partner Andy Butler in the centre of defence with Wayne Graves again opertating at right-back.

Captain Mark Jackson remains unavailable after having an injection for an ankle injury sustained in the original tie at Glanford Park, elsewhere United are unlkely to make any changes.

Wednesday's star new signings Mark Robins and former Iron loanee David Lucas are ineligible to play as they were not signed before the original tie, meaning Kevin Pressman will again be between the sticks.

Michael Reddy is manager Chris Turner's only injury doubt, with Lloyd Owusu set to gain a place in the starting XI.