POSH MATCH PREVIEW: McCann expecting a tough test at Oxford

Posh boss Grant McCann believes Saturday's opponents Oxford United will pose problems even though they've yet to win a League One game.
Oxford United's much-travelled striker Wes Thomas battles for possession of the ball in the air with Leicester City's Robert Huth during a pre-season friendly.Oxford United's much-travelled striker Wes Thomas battles for possession of the ball in the air with Leicester City's Robert Huth during a pre-season friendly.
Oxford United's much-travelled striker Wes Thomas battles for possession of the ball in the air with Leicester City's Robert Huth during a pre-season friendly.

“Oxford are a useful side,” McCann said. “I went to watch them at Fleetwood on Tuesday night and although they were beaten 2-0 on the night, you can see the problems they can cause.

“They are a good side, particularly at home, they have a decent fanbase and it is a big pitch.

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“But having said all that we go there with confidence after our 5-1 win over Millwall and we are all looking forward to it.”

Leonardo Da Silva Lopes and Jerome Binnom-Williams could return to the squad after missing the midweek win over Millwall. Both were rested.

Posh will make the trip to the Kassam Stadium without defender Ryan Tafazolli due to a hamstring injury, while Brad Inman and Lee Angol are long-term absentees.

Despite losing the services of influential pair Callum O’Dowda and Kemar Roofe, Oxford have a decent squad for League One level with Kane Hemmings a direct replacement for Roofe’s goals.

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They have also brought in talented teenager Tyler Roberts from West Bromwich Albion in a loan deal until January. The 17-year-old made his senior debut for West Brom against Liverpool in May, having previously been named as a substitute when he was aged only 16.

He signed his first professional contract at The Hawthorns in January.

“Tyler’s an exciting player who has pace, plenty of skill and an eye for goal,” Oxford boss Michael Appleton told the club’s website.

“A lot of people within football believe he has the talent to play at the highest level. This will be a fantastic chance for him to start showing what he can do on a regular basis.”