SCOTT Davies is hoping his claims for regular football at Oxford United have been boosted by a goal against Charlton Athletic.

The midfielder made the most of a rare start by impressing in the FA Cup third-round tie at The Valley, setting up United’s first goal before netting the second in a 2-2 draw.

Davies has begun every game of the Cup run, but has not started a league match since September.

The former Reading app-rentice was pleased to make a contribution at The Valley as he looks to push for more game time.

He said: “All you can do is your best when you get a chance, and hopefully I’ve done enough to get back in the starting XI because I’m one of the players that hates not playing.

“You get paid to play football and sitting on the sidelines watching isn’t my idea of fun.”

Davies has had to be patient, with United spending the entire season in Sky Bet League Two’s top seven.

But the midweek result extended the side’s winless run to five games – the longest of the season – which could open the door for another opportunity at Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday.

“I’ve not played as much as I would have liked lately, but the lads have been doing well,” he said.

“Obviously, recent results haven’t gone our way and if there’s changes to be made, hopefully I’ll be one of them.

U’s boss Chris Wilder was pleased with the 25-year-old’s display against Championship opposition and is keen to see him reach that standard more often.

Wilder said: “He (Davies) needs to be more consistent when he comes on to the pitch, whether he starts or comes off the bench.

“I was delighted with his performance.”

Despite frustration at not featuring more often, Davies has been determined to show the right attitude and play a part.

He said: “I don’t think you want negative people around the squad. That doesn’t bode well for anyone.

“We’re in it together. We’ve done things and achieved results this season by sticking together and doing it as a squad.”