The capture of Adrian Viveash on a longer-term contract is now one of Ian Atkins's priorities after the centre back's outstanding contribution to Oxford United's winning streak.

The experienced Reading defender, who is on a month's loan to United, has played a big part in the three away victories, which send the team into tomorrow's home clash with Hull City in buoyant mood.

Atkins said: "Adie's the next one we've got to look to bring into the club.

"He has been exceptional in the three away games. He's a leader and we're delighted to have him here - but I'd like him here longer.

"I'd like to get him here on a permanent contract and I'm hopeful, because I don't think he's going to get any joy in the first team at Reading in the first division."

United's manager looks certain to stick with the three centre halves of Viveash, Andy Crosby and Matt Bound, but there's a possibility of Matty Robinson returning at left wingback. He returned to training yesterday and had an impressive session, according to reports.

"Matty also gives us that option of going to a four, but I'll wait and see what Hull are likely to do," Atkins said. "I think they'll come here with a flat back four and a 4-3-3."

Dean Whitehead and Manny Omoyinmi will also be in the squad after impressing for the reserves at Brentford in midweek.

They say a week is a long time in football, but it's remarkable how the atmosphere, especially among the fans, has changed, in the past ten days.

"It's gone from 'Stand Up if You've Had Enough' and 'Atkins Out' in the Oxford Mail Stand at the Torquay game to 'We're Going to Win The League' ten days later," laughed the U's boss.

"I've been very happy with the performances at home, but the fans have been frustrated by results and we had just a 20-minute spell against Torquay where it wasn't very good.

"The players are well aware that although we've played well, we've struggled to win at home, so we'd dearly love to get a win for the home fans tomorrow."

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