JON-PAUL Pittman admits it is an unsettling time at Oxford United with so many players out of contract in the summer.

But the striker says it is something you try to put to the back of your mind to ensure you deliver on the pitch.

Pittman scored in Monday’s 3-2 defeat at Aldershot, his first appearance since suffering a dislocated shoulder at Accrington Stanley on December 1.

His season has been disrupted by injuries, but he is hoping to show what he can do in the final few matches.

“It’s not easy when you have mouths to feed and a mortgage to pay,” he said. “It’s very difficult. Football is a game of highs and lows. Every day it’s an assault on you mentally and physically.

“We all understand and know if you’re coming towards the end of your contract it’s going to be stressful, and it’s helpful when you have family and friends to support you, because it can be tough.”

He added: “I have not had any talks with the club. I think it will be a case of waiting until the end of the season.”