Oxford City manager Mike Ford has praised the attitude of his squad players, stressing that strength in depth is the key to maintaining a consistent run of form.

Ford handed starts to goalkeeper Mark Scott and defender Adam Learoyd in last week’s impressive 3-0 home win over Vauxhall Motors and said that their rivals will have to fight to regain their place.

“The players who played well last week have the opportunity to keep their place, but the squad isn’t decided yet and they have to impress in training,” said Ford.

“Players need to be pushing each other at every opportunity.

Mark Scott has been unfortunate to be out of the side for most of the season, but he’s been so professional and supportive during training that he earned himself the opportunity.

“Adam Learoyd came in because of an injury to Lee Henderson, but his attitude has been exemplary and it was only a matter of time until he got his chance.

“He’s got the shirt now and he’s got to keep it, while Henderson has got to earn his place back in the team.”

A now fully-fit Henderson is added to the squad.

Despite stretching their unbeaten run at Marsh Lane to an impressive six matches last week, Ford admitted he might decide to change the way his side play away from home, as they take on Worcester City at Kidderminster on Sunday.

“I think our goals against column tells you all you need to know,” added a frustrated Ford.

“We’ve conceded eight goals at outr place and 18 away from home, so clearly we’re too loose at the back when we play away.”

Oxford City (v Worcester City, away): from Scott, Ballard, Stonehouse, Pook, Learoyd, Willmott, Jackson, Malone, McNish, Symons, Robinson, Pond, Win-ters, Benjamin, Cook, Palmer, Francoz, Henderson.