MICHAEL Appleton’s toughest selection decisions for Oxford United today are likely to be in the back four.

Left back Joe Skarz is expected to miss out with a back problem, so the U’s boss is weighing up whether to keep winger Marvin Johnson in a more withdrawn role, or select Josh Ruffels.

There is a tougher call to be made at centre half, where Aaron Martin has done well in the last two cup games.

He is putting Chey Dunkley and Curtis Nelson – the preferred pairing in Sky Bet League One – under pressure.

Appleton also has Charlie Raglan to consider, after the loanee was unavailable for both cup competitions.

He said: “Aaron has come in and looks more like the player we thought we were signing.

“He’s done himself the power of good and I’ve got four centre halves who are more than capable of playing on Saturday.”

Winger Alex MacDonald is likely to return after suspension, which would allow Chris Maguire to switch back to his favoured role up front.

Oldham boss Stephen Robinson is expected to ring the changes after their 3-2 Emirates FA Cup defeat at Lincoln City.

He has midfielder Ryan Flynn available again after a shoulder injury.

TODAY’S SQUADS

Oxford Utd: from Eastwood, Edwards, Nelson, Martin, Johnson, MacDonald, Hall, Lundstram, Ledson, Maguire, Hemmings, Taylor, T Roberts, Rothwell, Ruffels, Dunkley, Raglan, Buchel.

Oldham Ath: from Ripley, Dummigan, Clarke, Burgess, Wilson, McLaughlin, Fane, Green, Flynn, McKay, Erwin, Osei, Croft, Dunne, Law, Reckord, Winchester, Ladapo, Kettings.