Edgar Davids played ninety minutes in midfield for Crystal Palace – and Scunthorpe fans will soon be welcoming a host of other world-famous names to Glanford Park with Manchester United travelling to the town for a third round League Cup tie in September.

Iron boss Adkins admitted that news of the draw gave his side a "massive boost" ahead of this weekend's fixture – and they duly responded with a comprehensive 3-0 win.

Adkins will be hoping his Scunthorpe side give United a real test next month and, given their performance against Palace, the Red Devils can expect a difficult contest – particularly if Sir Alex Ferguson opts to make a raft of changes for the fixture.

Scunthorpe reached the third round of the Carling-sponsored competition following wins over Oldham and Sheffield Wednesday, while United receive a bye to this stage due to their involvement in the Uefa Champions League.