Cubs are ready for Lions

The Hatters travel to Blue Square Bet North promotion hopefuls Guiseley and the director of youth football is hoping that some of his young charges will again be given the chance to shine.

Neilson said: “It’s a learning curve. It’s a very high pressurised game which they all are.

“They’ve gone in before and done very well.

“In the main they are delivering normally. If called upon I don’t see any reason why they can’t deliver in this round.”

The most likely youngsters to get the nod to be part of the squad are Godfrey Poku, JJ O’Donnell and Adam Watkins, all of whom have performed well when asked to play.

Guiseley were held to a goalless draw at Harrogate Town on Tuesday night and Neilson and manager Richard Money were both set to be in attendance to cast an eye over what the northerners have to offer.

Neilson added: “Me and the gaffer are going up there to watch them play Harrogate Town and do a scouting report.

“Gary Brabin has watched them once before.

“As soon as they play against Luton Town they will raise their game by 25 per cent because we are one of the biggest teams in the league.”

The Lions have only lost two of their 23 league games all season and are sure to provide a stern test for the Hatters who have already faced Corby and Gloucester from the same division in cup competitions this season.

Guiseley dismissed Blue Square Bet Premier struggler Eastbourne Borough over two games in the last round but lost 5-0 at home to Crawley Town in the first round of the FA Cup in November.