Oxford United will be looking to continue their impressive unbeaten run when the U’s travel to Accrington Stanley on Tuesday night.
Karl Robinson’s side have picked up wins against Sheffield Wednesday, Gillingham and, most recently, Portsmouth ahead of this game while also drawing at high-flying Wigan.
As for 15th placed Stanley, they lost 1-0 to table-topping Rotherham last time out, making it six games without a win. However, during that run, John Coleman’s side have drawn against MK Dons and Sunderland, with both of those matches coming at the Wham Stadium.
Sam Long is still unavailable after the defender sat out the dramatic win against Pompey, as is James Henry and deadline day signing Marcus Browne.
Defender Ciaron Brown made his U’s debut last time out but there could also be an opportunity for fellow new signings Oisin Smyth and Sam Baldock to feature. Gavin Whyte is also available following his isolation. Nathan Holland, who scored the winner against Pompey, netted twice when the sides last met.
Accrington are without Joe Pritchard, Joel Mumbongo and Dion Charles while Colby Bishop are both doubtful.
Losing Bishop will be a blow for the hosts as the striker is the club’s top scorer this season with 11 goals. Midfielders Harry Pell and Ethan Hamilton have both added seven each while defender Michael Nottingham has also contributed with six goals. Winger Sean McConville could be the danger man, with the 32-year-old adding nine assists.
Oxford won this fixture 4-1 last season while the last six meetings in Lancashire have provided two wins each and two draws. The U’s also eased past Stanley when the sides met earlier in the season.
Predicted line-up: Jack Stevens, Steve Seddon, Luke McNally, Elliott Moore, Anthony Forde, Herbie Kane, Cameron Brannagan, Mark Sykes, Nathan Holland, Billy Bodin, Matty Taylor.
Prediction: Accrington Stanley 0-3 Oxford United
