SCOTT Davies is determined to prove himself during Oxford United’s run-in, but the midfielder does not think his previous experience with Gary Waddock gives him an advantage.

The 26-year-old is the only player in the U’s squad who has featured under the new head coach.

Davies was signed by Waddock on loan four times, twice each for Aldershot Town and Wycombe Wanderers.

The change of management at United could be seen as a positive for a player who has started just four games in Sky Bet League Two this term.

Davies made his first appearance for a month on Monday, coming off the bench to play in the final 25 minutes of United’s 3-0 defeat at Southend.

But the former Reading trainee dismissed suggestions knowing Waddock’s style would help.

He said: “People have said ‘it’s great news for you’, but it’s not – it’s the same for everyone.

“Time has moved on and it’s time to prove myself again.”

However, Davies was quick to emphasise the new head coach’s strong points.

He said: “The fact that you know someone and that he’s a good guy helps.

“You know he’s not a manager who is going to come in and blow things up.

“He’s respectful in the sense he always speaks to his players when they’re dropped or going to start, which I like.

“He’s a good man-manager and I’m sure we’ll see the benefits in that.”

There is plenty at stake for Davies, who is among the United players whose contract expires at the end of this season.

And doing enough to earn a new deal is top of the agenda.

“That was my aim from the beginning of the season, to be here longer than just this season,” Davies said.

“It gives me a chance to do that and hopefully I can work my way into the side.

He added: “I’ve been ready for the last two months, hopefully I did myself a favour coming on (at Southend).

“But it’s all about starting games now and I want to be in there with the boys.

“Starting away at Dagenham on Saturday would be nice, but whatever happens I’ll be ready and supporting the lads.”