OXFORD United’s upturn in form since Andy Whing’s return from injury is no coincidence, according to head coach Michael Appleton.

The 30-year-old missed the opening two months of the season as he recovered from groin surgery during the summer.

But since coming back into the starting line-up, against Tranmere Rovers in Sky Bet League Two, United have looked more secure defensively.

Conceding almost 1.5 goals per game before his return, they have let in just seven during the past eight fixtures.

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Appleton also paid credit to goalkeeper Ryan Clarke, who returned from injury a fortnight earlier, but acknowledged Whing had made a big impact.

He said: “There’s no getting away from it.

“I try to be careful not to single out individuals, but we knew from the start of the season to play the way I chose to in terms of my philosophy we do need that type of player.

“We were using various people at the start of the season to try and find the solution, but I knew the solution was already in the building, he was just in the treatment room.”

Whing’s performances have steadily improved as he has gained match fitness and he was superb in the 1-1 draw at Cheltenham Town last Saturday.

It included a threaded pass to set up the equaliser for Tyrone Barnett.

Appleton said: “I look at him every week and see him improving in possession.

“I think that’s because every time he gets it he’s got three or four options.

“It does make you a better player because it’s hard to give the ball away when people want it off you all the time.”

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