OXFORD City are targeting a record home attendance when they open their doors to a new-look Court Place Farm next weekend.

The Vanarama National League South side are hard at work to complete preparations for their friendly against Oxford United on Saturday, July 8.

The clubs put pen to paper on a new partnership in May which will see them together run the brand new 3G surface, which has been installed over the last few weeks.

City’s pitch will under go a FIFA inspection next Wednesday, while working groups of more than 20 people have been hard at work to help renovate the clubhouse and give the ground a fresh lick of paint.

With United the first visitors, the club are hopeful of a bumper gate, which could be further boosted if their close neighbours appoint a new manager in time for the fixture.

City’s director of football Justin Merritt said: “The record attendance for the ground is when it was opened in 1993 and Oxford United were the opposition – 1,800 were there for that game.

“We want to try to get 2,000 – that’s the magic number.

“If Oxford United do us a favour and appoint Frank Lampard, we will go for 3,000!”

City are more accustomed to attendances of around 250 at home league games, but Merritt said the club is fully prepared for a sell-out.

He said: “There will be no problems. We’re all geared up for it.

“We’re working with Oxford United’s stewarding team for extra support and there will be extra car parking.”