‘It will be a difficult test for us’ - Darikwa ready for MK Dons fixture

Tendayi Darikwa is expecting a tough test against MK Dons tonight

The 23-year-old full back, who was awarded the man of the match accolade against Sheffield Wednesday at the weekend, faced Karl Robinson’s side on four occasions last term.

The former Spireites man won three of those four meetings across games in League One and the FA Cup - with the latter having to be replayed due to Chesterfield naming ineligible player, Georg Margreitter, in their starting XI.

“They’re a good football team,” he said. “Anyone who knows MK Dons knows they will come and pass the ball.

Tendayi Darikwa on the run against Sheffield Wednesday at the weekend

“It will be a difficult test for us, for a few of the lads it will be a bit of a new test against some different opposition.

“Having played against them last season I know it’s not going to be an easy game. We’ve got to be ready and prepared for a tough game.”

With Matt Lowton returning to the 18 man squad, Darikwa now faces stern competition for the right back slot. However, it’s a challenge that he welcomes.

“I’m really enjoying it,” Darikwa said. “I’ve come in just before the start of the season and thankfully I’ve managed to get a few games under my belt which is pleasing.

“We started off decent enough as well so it’s pleasing to be in the team at the moment and I’m enjoying it.

“Every game I’ve played at the Turf so far has been really enjoyable, the crowd has really got behind us.

“I want to improve the team every time I play and hopefully I can put in more performances like I did on Saturday and that will contribute to three points.”

He added: It’s a challenge, Lowts has been in the Premier League, so he’s obviously a very good player and a good professional. It’s not something I’m trying to think of too much, I just want to improve my own game on a personal note and stay in the team as long as possible.

“It’s always good to have competition for places. It brings the best out of players. There’s a lot of people who have been injured who are getting nearer to fitness.

“It’s good to have a strong squad, you can’t win a league or get promoted with 11 players, it’s a squad game so hopefully everyone can get fit as soon as they can and improve what we’ve already got.”