George Baldock says Oxford United will benefit from a tough test against Coventry City this afternoon as they look to complete their preparations for the new season.

The pre-season schedule was specifically designed by U’s boss Michael Appleton to get more difficult with each game.

On paper, Tony Mowbray’s Sky Bet League One side should present a step-up from United’s previous games against strong non-league outfits Woking (a 1-0 defeat) and Eastleigh (2-0 win).

Coming a week before the season kicks off at home to Crawley Town, Baldock is looking forward to being stretched and rounding off what has been an encouraging pre-season.


The full back said: “It’s really positive, everyone is fit and it’s just fine-tuning the details.

“Hopefully we’ve ironed out most of them, but it’s another week to prepare for a game which will be fiercely competitive.

“It doesn’t have any meaning in terms of points, so we can relax, play our way and the gaffer can implement exactly what he wants on a game that will be very competitive against a good team.

“It’s invaluable to have these games so close to the season and test ourselves against League One opposition.

He added: “I don’t think we need to have pressure on us at the minute, the boys are experienced enough to deal with it.

“However, it is nice to get a test to sharpen up your brain and feet and get ready for the game next week.”

Baldock, who returned to United on a season-long loan from MK Dons, has been part of a back four which has conceded just once in four friendly matches.

While it is the same defence which did well in the closing weeks of last season, they have had to adjust to a new keeper.

But Baldock saluted Sam Slocombe’s performances since taking over as No 1.

He said: “Sam’s brilliant and is a very good talker.

“For the likes of myself who keep a high line he’s brilliant at sweeping things up.

“He plays out from the back and kicks well, he’s just a good guy and has fitted in really well.”

Appleton sees it as good preparation for the side’s Capital One Cup tie against Brentford Griffin Park on August 11.

The boss said: “I’m expecting a good game where we’ll have to be patient and they might have a little bit more of the ball than us at times."