Oxford United forward Elliot Lee could return to the squad for this Saturday’s trip to Hull City. The news is a boost with Cameron Brannagan and Mide Shodipo picking up knocks in the U’s derby win against Swindon.
Lee picked up a knee injury during Oxford’s goalless draw with Peterborough and has missed the following draw against Charlton and win over Swindon.
Despite his recent absence, U’s boss Karl Robinson is aware of the importance of Lee’s imminent return, having already scored twice since his arrival in January. Speaking to the Oxford Mail, Robinson said: “It’s massive.
“I think everyone’s seen the impact he’s had on the football club since he’s come in.
“His goals have been important and led us to gaining points.
“He’s a really likeable young man with a real desire to want to do well – not just because he’s on loan, but because he loves football.
“He’s engrossed in what we’re trying to achieve here and he’s really bought into our methods and philosophy.”
The U’s boss added that striker Sam Winnall could be available next weekend when Oxford face Blackpool. The 30-year-old has been sidelined since a 1-1 draw at MK Dons at the end of February, where Lee scored a stoppage-time equaliser.
Robinson said: “There’s a possibility he could be in the squad, but that’s at the mercy of how he does over the next seven days.
“There’s not a great deal of issues with the scan that he had, it’s just purely down to the swelling.”
Sam Long and James Henry will be sidelined until Easter while Marcus McGuane has been ruled out for the season.
