Oxford United's leading scorer Dean Windass has suffered a training-ground injury which makes him doubtful for Saturday's visit to unbeaten Bolton.

The former Aberdeen striker, who hit his sixth goal of the season for the U's against Tranmere last Saturday, opened up his knee during training on Monday and may also have some minor ligament damage.

"It's something he's had since the pre-season game against Panionios when he was caught in a tackle," explained manager Malcolm Shotton.

"He'll miss a couple of days' training and we're just keeping our fingers crossed that's all he'll miss."

Meanwhile, Shotton confirmed the United management's concern about Paul Powell's energy levels by revealing that the club are trying to get the 20-year-old to undergo blood tests.

Shotton was upset by the amount of criticism levelled at him for substituting Powell during the second half of the Tranmere game.

"He was absolutely shot away - he was shattered, and I'm surprised these people who are having a go at me couldn't see that," Shotton said.

CENTRE back Carlos Lopez de Silanes Molina from the Mexican club Fomento Deportivo Iraputo, who has been training with United this week, is unlikely to play in their Combination team game at Swindon tonight.

There is little chance of international clearance being granted in time.

Anthony Wright returns from international duty with Wales under 21s to play in the game.

Oxford United Res: Jackson, Remy, Rose, Wilsterman, Shepheard, Folland, Cook, Hill, Wright, Nix, Murphy. Subs: Brennan, Richards, R Weatherstone.

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