Willy Topp will be held back until after Christmas.

Stuart McCall is ready to give the Chilean striker a run-out over the holiday period but that won't happen at Peterborough on Saturday.

Topp caught the eye for the reserves in midweek, scoring a goal during 55 minutes of action.

But McCall's plan to give him the full game was scuppered after a bang on the head left Topp suffering from slight concussion.

McCall said: "It was a shame because Willy looked bright and he's desperate for a chance to get going. He created things and was sharp and the only disappointing factor was that he had to come off.

"We've got a few strikers that are fit and want to be playing so we'll see how it goes over the next four games.

"I don't think he will be involved at the moment. I would think that the supporters will see some part of him in the next couple of home games."

McCall has told the players that he is prepared to rotate personnel and systems through the festive fixtures.

Matt Clarke picked up a dead leg in training and Eddie Johnson has just started running again after his back injury.

But McCall's resources are otherwise healthy, with Paul Heckingbottom recovered from the calf strain he suffered at Chesterfield a fortnight ago.

"No doubt over the course of the games we will pick up knocks and injuries," said the City boss.

"I've said to the players that I will be picking what I think is the best way to go in each different game.

"It's a busy period coming up and we need everybody available because there will be alterations."

McCall admits Saturday's clash with third-placed Peterborough presents a massive test, even though City came up trumps in the first meeting at Valley Parade in September.

He said: "They were probably the best footballing side we played this season in terms of possession. They dictated the midfield area for a long time and it was a case of us having to be patient.

"But that's probably the best we've defended as a unit. It's not nice when another team comes to your patch and has the majority of possession but we kept our shape and didn't give them many chances.

"Craig Mackail-Smith never played against us but he's come in and scored regularly; Aaron McLean is always going to be a threat and George Boyd as well.

"They were unfortunate by all accounts to lose to MK Dons last week in a very good game, so we know it's going to be a tough test.

"We need to improve our away form. In recent games we have picked up a bit and that has to continue.

"We're under no illusions about the task ahead of us but it's one we've got to relish. We must be at our best at the back and, when the chances come at the other end, make sure we're able to take them."

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