Ferguson defends team selection

Peterborough have won just once since being promoted to the Championship

Peterborough United manager Darren Ferguson has defended his decision to make changes to his back four for Tuesday's 2-1 defeat by Plymouth.

Jamie Day and Charlie Lee came into the side in place of Tommy Williams, who was on the bench, and Gabby Zakuani, who was left out of the squad.

Ferguson told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: "I felt we needed two centre-halves who could come out with the ball and play.

"Charlie was short of fitness so it was a bit of a gamble."

An ankle injury had kept Lee on the sidelines since the 2-0 defeat at Preston on 22 August, while Zakuani had been an ever-present in the Championship for the Posh this season.

New signing Danny Rose, who arrived at London Road on loan from Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, made his Peterborough debut in midfield and drew instant praise from Ferguson.

"He can see a pass, he's good on the ball and offers good balance with his left-foot," said the United boss.

"When he was on the ball some of his passing was a delight."

The defeat to the Pilgrims, coupled with Barnsley's win over West Brom, sees Peterborough slip into the Championship relegation zone for the first time this season.

As a result, Ferguson said he will be looking for an improvement when fellow strugglers Nottingham Forest visit London Road on Saturday.

"One win in ten isn't good enough," said the former Wrexham midfielder.

"I know that and the supporters known that and we'll be looking for an improvement on Saturday."

Meanwhile, Day looks set for a spell on the sidelines after suffering a gashed ankle in Tuesday's defeat.