TOWN boss Andy King is hoping to finally unleash 'The Beast' on Milton Keynes Dons today with Jerel Ifil as desperate for a return to action as his boss.

A thigh injury has prevented the former Watford man from playing in Town's opening two games but both player and manager are eager to rectify the situation.

Ifil, who was due to be assessed again this morning, said: "I am like a lion ready to pounce. Not being involved has been really frustrating."

Another welcome piece of news for King is that striker Lloyd Opara has recovered from his hamstring woes and is also available for selection.

Sean O'Hanlon (dead leg) and Andy Gurney (back) both missed training yesterday but King is hoping one or both will be okay by 3pm today.

Fortunately, a hand injury to Sam Parkin has proved to be bruising rather than a break.

King is hoping some light is appearing at the end of Town's injury tunnel.

He said: "Jerel and Lloyd have both trained. They could have done with a reserve game before I see if they're fully fit but I don't have that luxury.

"I'll have to make decisions on how they recover from Friday's training session.

"If O'Hanlon and Gurney are okay then I'm possibly back to the best I can be, in the sense that we know about Matty Heywood and Andy Nicholas. I'm back to having a choice."

Heywood had his long-awaited knee operation yesterday and while Nicholas trained with his colleagues, King insists the youngster has 'no chance' in terms of today's match.

The manager's attempts to add to his squad ahead of the Dons clash have not been a success.

He said: "I've tried phone calls galore.

"Players are out of your price range in this day and age or not available at this moment in time.

"The Premiership starts this weekend and everyone wants to look at their squads.

"No-one is worried about Swindon Town."

Despite a disappointing start, King is upbeat and positive about the way ahead.

He knows he has the players to get the better of opposing teams.

He said: "I think it's about us. There was a purpose, energy and drive in the second half performance against Luton.

"And with players to come back it gives me hope.

"Teams will suffer with problems during the season. I'm sure we'll come up against teams that have injuries and suspensions where we'll benefit. We're suffering in August. You have to get on with it."

The Town boss is looking for his side to take the initiative today rather than trying to overturn a deficit.

He said: "We've been behind in two games. Let's see this team when we're in front.

"Going behind doesn't suit this team because my players are more creative than they are defensive.

"It's better that we get in front and the opposition have to come at us.

"Then we become a determined, defensive unit and can catch teams on the break.

"Yes, we haven't been at our best but it's too early to be despondent and to make judgements. The league doesn't show anything yet."