Des Buckingham’s side travel to Bloomfield Road on Saturday with the hopes of strengthening their claim for a place in the play-offs. However it is by no means an easy task, with Blackpool also having those same ambitions.
Like their rivals, the Tangerines are positioned just outside of the playoff picture. They can easily close the deficit, even if they are six points behind Oxford in eighth and six behind Stevenage in sixth. The game on Saturday feels like a true six-pointer, and Blackpool’s season-long goals could be dashed by a defeat.
Given that players returning from injury have bolstered the team over the past week, Oxford should feel quietly optimistic. On Saturday, at least five players who were on the sidelines—Jamie Cumming, Billy Bodin, Sam Long, Josh Murphy, and Will Goodwin—should be eligible for selection.
The return of those names strengthens the squad considerably and adds some much-needed depth, which Buckingham will be hoping to use.
Will Goodwin, the club’s high-profile January acquisition, may be the most intriguing of the five players who are currently eligible for selection. The striker, who arrived at the club with a slight injury, joined from Cheltenham Town during the window but has not yet made his debut. Having him totally healthy is a significant plus because he is anticipated to be the U.S.’s future talisman.
Manager Buckingham provided This is Oxfordshire with an update regarding Goodwin’s injury.
He has returned, resumed his training, is open for selection, and is scheduled to travel to Blackpool.
He showed in with a minor ache that he wasn’t even aware of, but he has been waiting patiently.
“He’s worked really hard to hopefully prepare himself as best he can, so that when he does enter the field, he can show people what he can do,” said Amy Cranston, head of medical, together with our medical staff and the sports science men.
Regarding the other players making a comeback from injury, Buckingham would continue, saying:
“Josh Murphy returns with a welcome infusion of talent and extra pace to the team, and Billy Bodin has been cleared to travel with the club.
“Sam Long has completed all of the testing and is back to normal following his concussion protocols. Jamie Cumming is experienced in the field.
completely this week, and he is an additional candidate up for selection.
“As long as Joe Bennett trains well, he’ll be at Wigan and ready for selection on Tuesday.”
Oxford’s chances of earning a play-off spot have significantly increased, with five players anticipating their returns in the coming days. The best of the lot is undoubtedly Will Goodwin, who after making the transfer in January, supporters can’t wait to him in action.
The matchup with Blackpool is undoubtedly difficult, and Bloomfield Road is not a convenient location; still, the U’s will be optimistic about their chances. Gaining three points would be extremely beneficial to their promotion hopes and provide them with much-needed momentum for the remaining games of the season. Although the game should be close, Oxford might win because of the injury boosts.
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