Chesterfield midfielder Derek Niven, described as a 'warrior' by Johnson, has joined the Cobblers on a month's loan.
Johnson said: "He will be a good addition. He is a six-footer, a ball-winner and someone who gets from box to box, and will give us a lot of experience in the middle of the park."
The Northampton boss has also confirmed that Bayo Akinfenwa will start the match after recovering from his jaw injury.