JOE Skarz could deliver a fitness boost for Oxford United in time for this weekend's trip to Port Vale.

The experienced left back has missed the last two games with a shoulder injury following an awkward fall in the 3-1 defeat to AFC Wimbledon on October 9.

It was thought he could be out until the end of the month, but U's head coach Michael Appleton believes Skarz could be available on Saturday.

He said: "Skarzy could be 50/50.

"He’s still a little bit sore but you know what he’s like, he wants to push it and see where he’s at.

"We’ll be delicate with him and make sure we make the right decision, but he could make a surprise return on Saturday.

"He’s the type of player who wants to play every minute.

"We will leave it down to him, but he’s sensible enough to make the right decision."