OXFORD United owe their supporters a big finish at home today to repay the crucial role they have played in the run-in, according to John Mousinho.

Karl Robinson’s men will end any lingering relegation doubts in Sky Bet League One by avoiding defeat against Rochdale this afternoon.

And even a loss would not be an issue, if Oldham Athletic fail to beat Doncaster Rovers.

Although United’s win at Doncaster last weekend took the pressure off, it is results at the Kassam Stadium over the last six weeks which have kept the bottom four at arm’s length.

It has not always been an easy place to play, but Mousinho believes it is no coincidence an improved atmosphere has helped since the side were applauded off despite losing to Plymouth Argyle in February.

He said: “I think we owe it to ourselves and everybody connected to the club to really finish on a high and give everyone a bit of positivity going into next season.

“It’s been tough, but by and large, especially in the last six weeks, the fans have really stuck by us.

“I think (earlier in the season) we had a difficult relationship and the players found it difficult.

“I don’t know if it was a turning point or not, but after the Plymouth game we got a really good ovation coming off the pitch.

“We had lost the game, but had put in a performance that was worthy of what Oxford fans expected.

“After that we’ve really kicked on at home and I can’t remember any of the atmospheres or the performances being negative.

“I hope they’re looking at the players now and thinking ‘they’re giving everything’.”

While Mousinho admitted there had been moments in the last few weeks where he was concerned about United’s slide down the table, it never crossed Todd Kane’s mind.

The full back, on loan from Chelsea, has consistently made it clear he had no fears of relegation and is still aiming to leapfrog a few more sides before the end of the campaign.

He said: “I’m looking to finish around 13th, it could still happen.

“There are a few teams below us on 48 points and I don’t think we’re involved in any of that.

“If we win on Saturday it puts us in a great position going into the last game against Blackburn, who are already promoted.

“All we can do is aim as high as possible.”