DAVE Penney returns to Doncaster Rovers in January after Darlington were paired with his former club in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

Penney's past and present employers will meet in the northern section semi-final. Crewe and Chesterfield make up the draw.

However, a nostalgic return to Belle Vue, where Penney enjoyed four-and-a-half successful years, guiding Rovers to two successive promotions, will not be possible as Rovers are due to play their first game at their new 15,000 all-seater stadium on New Year's Day.

Nonetheless, Penney is relishing going back to South Yorkshire for the first time, four months after parting company with Doncaster.

He admitted: "I thought we'd get them somewhere down the line, whether it was this competition or the FA Cup.

"I had some very good times at Doncaster and I'm looking forward to going back there.

"It will be another good test for the lads because they are a very good side.

"However, we have another six or seven games before then over a very busy Christmas and New Year period, so we'll worry about Doncaster nearer the time."

Penney will now switch his attentions to Wycombe Wanderers as Quakers resume their League Two commitments tomorrow night.

After three straight league wins under Penney, eighth-placed Quakers are within one point of a play-off spot.

Wanderers, who were also eliminated from the FA Cup after losing 2-1 at Stockport, are fourth in the table.

"We've had four cup games since I arrived so it will be nice to concentrate on our league games," said Penney.

"I've won all three league games and if we play like we have been and cut out the silly mistakes then we'll be fine for the rest of the season."

Penney will recall on-loan defender Mark Albrighton, who was cup-tied at the weekend, for the trip to Adams Park.

Johnstone's Paint Trophy area semi-finals draw: Northern Section: Doncaster Rovers v Darlington, Chesterfield v Crewe. Southern Section: Shrewsbury v Bristol Rovers, Bristol City v Brighton.

All ties to be played week commencing January 8.