Oxford United will be looking to progress to the second round of the FA Cup when the U’s face Bristol Rovers in a first-round replay. The winner will face Sutton United in the next round.
The two sides drew 2-2 at Grenoble Road nine days before this fixture. Since, Karl Robinson’s side played out a goalless draw at Ipswich while Joey Barton’s Pirates won at home against Northampton.
As a result of their stalemate at Portman Road, the U’s are now unbeaten in six games in all competitions.
Jack Stevens has returned to training but is still some way off a return to action. The U’s are also without Alex Rodriguez Gorrin after picking up an ACL injury in the previous meeting against the Gas, while Gavin Whyte is on international duty. Brett Pitman remains a doubt for the hosts while Glenn Whelan was sent off against the Cobblers.
Former Rovers striker Matty Taylor netted and assisted in the match at Grenoble Road, meaning he has eight goal contributions in his last six games.
The U’s are unbeaten in their last three meetings against the Gas, winning 2-0 at the Memorial Stadium in the league last season. In fact, Rovers have only won two of the last ten home meetings against Oxford.
Predicted line-up: Simon Eastwood, Steve Seddon, Luke McNally, Elliott Moore, Anthony Forde, Herbie Kane, James Henry, Marcus McGuane, Billy Bodin, Ryan Williams, Matty Taylor.
Prediction: Bristol Rovers 0-2 Oxford United.
