Paddy McCarthy expects newly promoted Peterborough United to give Crystal Palace a tough test when the Championship season opens on Saturday.

The Eagles travel to London Road to face a Posh side who will be party mood having returned to the league at the first time of asking last season, beating Huddersfield Town in the League One play-off final.

On their way to that play-off final, Posh scored 69 goals at home and McCarthy knows to expect a difficult day at the office.

"I am looking forward to a tough opposition but sometimes you are better off playing those promoted teams later in the season," saying McCarthy.

"However, I think Peterborough showed last season they are capable of scoring goals and winning games, especially at home.

"But we will go there in confident mood and hopeful of a result.

"There will be a fabulous atmosphere and I like playing at the older grounds like London Road."