Oxford United may have been away at Gibraltar Barracks this week but their target has always been to get back to winning ways against Walsall on Saturday.
The U’s have made the most of a three day stay with the army but boss Pep Clotet insists that their sights are now set firmly on the Saddlers.
“The purpose is to win against Walsall” he told iFollow. “This week was a chance for everyone to be together. I came to visit the facilities in early August, then we made a detailed plan three weeks ago. We wanted to do something where we could train at good facilities but also in an environment where we could do some team building activities and talk about leadership and it has proved to be a fantastic experience for us.
“The whole week is about Saturday though. We started with two very good sessions on Tuesday and we talked about improving from the way we played on Saturday. We gave been in good form, especially at home, and want to get back to that and put in a good performance that the fans enjoy on Saturday.”
Both striker Jon Obika and defender Christian Ribeiro could be in contention for Saturday’s game at Grenoble Road.
“Jon has been involved all week” Pep confirmed “and Ribs as well. I am a little bit more cautious with him although I can see he is almost fit but with Jon I am very optimistic.”
Agon Mehmeti is also getting near to a first appearance:
“We played a training game against the Engineers on Wednesday morning and he played and scored so he is getting closer” Pep confirmed.
John Mousinho will be available after the safe arrival of a baby daughter on Monday, the defender joining the U’s throughout the week but was also granted time at home to be with his new family
“We are very happy for him” Pep said. “It brings good luck and a good atmosphere. He has spent some time with the baby but also been here working with us doing all the training. We just wish him all the best and welcome another fan to the Oxford family.”
See the full interview plus a behind the scenes look at the army training in iFollow.