Liam Davis says that all friendships will be cast aside on Saturday – if he is chosen to play against his former side.

The left back is available after suspension for Oxford United’s npower League Two game with Northampton Town at the Kassam Stadium – the U’s last home game of 2011.

But with Anthony Tonkin producing a solid display at Morecambe last week, Davis is under no illusions that he is by no means certain of an instant return.

“Hopefully I will get the chance to play against my old club,” Davis said.

“But although I felt I did well earlier in the season, no footballer should ever expect to walk into any team.

“Tonks came in and did very well and you have to prove in matches earlier in the season and then in training leading up to the match that you should come back in, so we will have to wait and see what team the manager picks.”

Davis joined the U’s from Northampton, but admits while he has a few friends at the club, says there are a lot of new faces.

“My personal emotions will definitely be put aside because I have got some old mates there,” he said.

“There has been a big turnaround at Northampton and I don’t know masses of players, but obviously it’s nice when you play against your former side.

“Having said that, it’s just another game – but obviously one that I want to win for Oxford United.”

Boss Chris Wilder must decide whether to bring back Davis for Tonkin – or play both – and also faces some decisions elsewhere.

Alfie Potter is back after injury and likely to start, but Michael Duberry is still missing.

Rob Hall, who was a substitute last week having played for West Ham’s youth team in the week leading up to Morecambe, is also pushing for a start.

Northampton have centre back Kelvin Langmead missing thro-ugh suspension after his red card in last week’s 1-1 draw with Crewe Alexandra – boss Aidy Booth-royd's first game in charge.