RYAN Taylor will miss the rest of the season after suffering another problem in his bid to recover from a groin injury.

The striker had been managing the problem since the early weeks of his debut campaign with Oxford United.

His last appearance came in the 2-1 defeat to Bristol Rovers in January, but it was hoped he would return in time for the run-in.

Instead, an issue has re-emerged which means the 27-year-old, who has scored four goals this season, will not be rushed back before the end of the season.

United head coach Michael Appleton, who signed George Waring on loan in February as cover, said: "It's really unfortunate.

"After having a fantastic middle third of the season he was very dominant for us and played a really big part in our performances at the time and the results we were picking up.

"Unfortunately he's broken down again, so I think he's at that point where he needs complete rest for quite a period of time.

"There's no point in him rushing back now, we don't want him to break down again.

"I'd rather get him in a position where we have a fresh, flying Ryan Taylor for the start of next season."