Davis return means Oxford United face decision on O'Brien (From Oxford Mail)

Davis return means Oxford United face decision on O'Brien

9:30am Friday 9th November 2012 in Oxford Utd By David Pritchard, Chief Sports Reporter covering Oxford United. Follow us on twitter: @oxfordmailoufc. Call me on 01865 425458

LIAM Davis’s return to fitness will prompt Oxford United boss Chris Wilder to review Luke O’Brien’s position in the squad.

Last season’s No 1 left back has been on the sidelines since the end of last season following two operations on a groin injury.

Davis made his comeback ahead of schedule as a substitute in Tuesday’s 3-2 defeat against Dagenham & Redbridge.

The 25-year-old is likely to be named on the bench again for tomorrow’s game against Torquay United, but it will not be long before he is able to provide competition for Tony Capaldi’s place in the starting line-up.

O’Brien joined United on a short-term deal in September as cover for Davis.

It expires in the middle of next month and with the playing budget reportedly at its limit there is little sense in having three specialist left backs in the squad.

Wilder said: “There’s possibly a decision to be made there and I’ll speak to Luke.

“He’s done great for us, I’ve obviously got two contracted players in Tony and Liam, but I have to make sure Liam is 100 per cent – which he’s near enough.”

Injuries have plagued United so far this season, but the end appears in sight.

The remaining unavailable players are nearing the end of their treatment, with Deane Smalley potentially back for the trip to Chesterfield next week and Damian Batt due to return early in December.

Wilder said: “I’m looking at having everybody back by the first two weeks of next month, which will be great news.”

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