The Leeds United boss made six changes from last weekend's line-up that disappointingly lost out to Huddersfield Town for the Cobblers FA Cup test just over 48 hours later.

Both Prutton – making just his sixth start this term and the first since October 18 – and Lucas, handed keeping duties for the first time in nearly a month, grabbed their opportunity with both hands, staking claims for a regular first-team berth in impressive fashion.

McAllister, spoilt for choice in all departments, admits he has been handed a headache every manager would want.

He said: "I very rarely pull out individuals for praise, because it's very much a team effort here – but on the night, Prutts was excellent.

"He played with a lot of energy and has been very patient.

"He's a player who recognised that the area of the park in which he plays in has been operating pretty well.

"He's bided his time, got on with his training and kept his head down.

"David Lucas was very dominant, confident and relaxed.

"And it spread through the team from there and I was pleased for David. He came in and did very well."

Meanwhile, McAllister insists there is plenty more to come on the international front for prized asset Fabian Delph, who was afforded a brief cameo for the England Under-21s in their friendly with the Czech Republic on Tuesday night.

The midfielder came on for his bow as an 86th-minute substitute at Bramall Lane – to receive an early birthday present, with Delph turning 19 yesterday.

McAllister said: "I was delighted for him. Unfortunately, I was watching the game at Histon, but I was pleased to see he got on, even though it was only for four or five minutes.

"But they'll be lots more to come from Fabian."