U's get set to welcome the Latics
Oxford United boss Michael Appleton is looking for his side to stay positive and start well when they take on Oldham at Grenoble Road on Saturday. The U’s are on a five game unbeaten run and won both their last two home games against Coventry and Gillingham and Michael is looking for his side to keep that form going when they welcome the Latics this weekend
“A lot of it is down to mindset” he told Yellow Player HD. “If you go into the game with the right attitude, given the talent we have got, you give yourself every opportunity. We have done a lot better and I think have turned the corner in terms of how we start games because that was a bit of a killer for us.
“The record at home is pretty good, just a couple of defeats and we have certainly addressed our home form since the first day I walked in here. That first season was difficult but last season we were right up there in terms of home form and we are again this year. We have three of the next four games at home in the league and I think the Christmas fixtures have been helpful for us as well so we have to try and take full advantage of that.”
United have some interesting selection choices with Michael having shuffled his pack in the cup games at Macclesfield and Southend. Joe Skarz is the one major doubt for the U’s with a back problem.
“He’s still struggling a little bit” Michael admitted. “In his head he thinks he has a chance for Saturday, the reality is he probably hasn’t! I’ll speak to him and be realistic because we have so many games coming up and I need as many players available for them as possible. There’s no point putting him back in for one game then him missing seven.”
Josh Ruffels or Marvin Johnson will replace Skarz at left back.
“They are very different “ Michael said. “We have to make a decision and choose the right one against Oldham, being aware of what the opposition’s strengths and weaknesses are and whether we go with Marvin or Josh.
“ The same at centre-half where Aaron Martin has done great and Charlie Raglan is available again. It’s great to have four centre halves to choose from and to have options. I’m sure a couple of players will come knocking on my door asking what they have to do to get in the team, but that’s football and what we do it for.”
See the full interview plus an excellent chat with Chris Maguire in Yellow Player HD.
Join us on Saturday – there’s a Santa’s Grotto for young fans and prizes for the youngsters in the best fancy dress so bring the family and see the U’s take on the Latics. Tickets are available from 01865 337533 or www.oufctickets.co.uk