THERE will be an “unbelievable atmosphere” on Saturday as the U’s FA Cup clash with Blackburn looks set for a sell-out.

Oxford United said they were astonished by the interest surrounding the fourth round with Blackburn Rovers and manager Michael Appleton praised the fans for their continued support.

The club said they expected another bumper attendance as fans took to their phones, the website and turned up at the ground to get their hands on the last few tickets.

The U’s opponents also reported yesterday being close to selling out their 1,500 allocation, making another packed-out Kassam Stadium at the weekend look certain.

Head coach Appleton said “The fans have backed us all season. They were brilliant in the last round against Swansea and at Portsmouth on Saturday.

“It will be another unbelievable atmosphere and it’s a game we are all looking forward to.”

Tickets went back on general sale on Monday night as a number of North Stand seats were made available as well as those now taken up by season ticket holders.

The club said it sold 1,700 tickets from 6pm.

Less than 500 tickets were left in the home stands at 9.30am and by the late afternoon only a handful remained in the North Stand.

Former chairman of fan group OxVox, and a fan for more than 20 years, Mark Sennett, said: “We have always had fantastic support over the years. The fans always come out in force for the big games and it will be no different on Saturday.

The 31-year-old added: “Blackburn won’t fancy it at all and there’s no reason we can’t do it after beating sides like Swansea and Swindon.”

Saturday’s opponents Blackburn Rovers reported yesterday they had fewer than 100 tickets remaining and said there was “every chance” their 1,500 allocation would sell out.

In the third round, 11,673 people saw United overcome Swansea City 3-2 at the Kassam Stadium, the biggest home gate for almost four years.

United last reached the fourth round of the FA Cup in 1999 when they welcomed Chelsea to the old Manor Ground. The U’s were leading the Premiership side 1-0 through a Dean Windass goal until an injury-time penalty robbed the home side of a famous win.