Michael Appleton looks forward as the U's return to the UK
There’s a busy week ahead for the U’s as pre-season steps up another gear.
After a successful training camp in Austria, United are back in Oxford and preparing for a week that sees three matches. On Tuesday night Michael Appleton’s side travel to National League side Woking before they take on Benfica’s Under-21 side in a behind-closed-doors friendly on Wednesday. On Saturday United make the trip down the A34 for a friendly at Eastleigh, where a host of former United players will ensure it is a stern test for the U’s.
“We know there will be three really good tests for us this week," Michael told Yellow Player, "but we are looking for everyone to get that bit sharper and for the games to be competitive ones at this stage. Woking challenged at the top of their league last season and then the next day we have the opportunity to play Benfica at St George's Park and that will be great experience for the lads. It's behind closed doors, at Benfica's request, which is a shame because I know the fans would have liked to see it but I am sure they will travel in numbers down to Eastleigh on Saturday where there is an Oxford connection with so many former players, plus of course Stewart Donald's involvement.
"All three are good games for us at this stage. We have come back from Austria with everyone fully fit, and it was good to have Max Crocombe back with us today and training with the squad. We have plenty of competition for places and the next week is a chance for everyone to show what they can do."
See the full interview in Yellow Player