MICKEY Lewis is calling on Oxford United's fans to help them out of their relegation battle.

Their defeat at Oldham last Saturday saw them slide back into the relegation zone, and Lewis is hoping that good support can help United climb the table.

They go into tonight's game against high-flying Preston at the Manor knowing that a win will move them back up the table.

"We need everybody behind us now," Lewis admitted.

"Hopefully, there will be a big crowd and they will be patient with us and get right behind the boys.

"We are in the same position now as we were when I took over, but I believe the team is much better."

Lewis says he is unlikely to make wholesale changes after Saturday's defeat, although one player definitely out is Neil McGowan, who broke his right leg at Boundary Park.

Jon Shepheard is set to make his first league start in place of McGowan, with Joey Beauchamp also back in the frame after anankle injury. Beauchamp could come in for Derek Lilley on the right, while the other decision Lewis has to make is whether to keep with Steve Anthrobus up front or recall Jamie Cook.

"There's no point in drawing games now," said Lewis. "We have to start winning."

Preston have lost only one league match away all season and are reported to be better away than at home.

They will be without Bjarke Gunnlaugsson, who is on international duty, and have injury worries in attack with Steve Basham and Kurt Nogan both struggling.

Basham, signed for £200,000 from Southampton, is only half-fit but might have to take his place in attack alongside 18-goal top-scorer Jonathan Macken.

Story date: Tuesday 01 February

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