Michael Appleton admits it has been a frustrating week as Oxford United have been unable to strengthen their squad ahead of tomorrow’s home game with Southend United.

But the head coach believes the existing players still have enough quality to win and says a lack of transfer activity will not be used as an excuse.

Last weekend Appleton was confident he would have a couple of new faces in by now.

But they have lost out to other clubs in the race to sign targets and are unlikely to get a deal over the line before tomorrow’s game.

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Appleton said: “There’s a couple that we’ve missed out on to bigger clubs.

“I’m a big believer you go as high as you possibly can and at the end of the day either the team or the player can only say no.”

The most notable target was Bolton Wanderers full back Joe Riley, who signed permanently for Bury amid strong interest from United.

Appleton said: “Obviously it was disappointing, he was a big influence.

“I wish Joe all the best.”

That, plus an inability to sign a replacement in time, were blows to United ahead of back-to-back home games against top-ten sides Southend and Exeter City.

Jon Meades and Sam Long have deputised in his absence and the pair are vying for a place in the side tomorrow.

While acknowledging new blood would have aided their chances, Appleton has confidence in the squad.

“It’s been very frustrating, but I don’t want to start making excuses,” he said.

“We have a group of players who I think are more than capable of winning the next two games at home, that’s the bottom line.

“If things don’t go for us there will be no ‘we could have done this or that’.”

Half the transfer window has now elapsed, with all United’s business in January seeing players leave the club.

Appleton said: “I won’t get edgy until an hour before the window closes. I’m not just going to bring a player in because someone tells me he’s got decent ability.

“He has to have the right character and personality.”

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