OXFORD United are in a confident mood as they open their campaign in FA Women’s National League South with a visit to Chichester City tomorrow (2pm).

It is a step down for United after they failed to secure a place in the restructured FA Women’s Super League for this season.

They completed their preparations with a 8-0 victory over Swindon with goals from Lauren Allison (2), Georgia Timms (2), skipper Lauren Haynes, Flo Fyfe, Emily Allen and Ellie Noble.

Liam Gilbert, who took over as manager following the departure of Andy Cook, said: “I think we are in good shape when you consider that we have had to rebuild this summer.

“One of the pleasing things was the number of players who chose to stay with us, and then we have recruited well.”We also have lots of young players ready to step up.

“It’s a new league, but we think we will be competitive and hopefully will do really well.”

Meanwhile, Lucy Thomas, United’s first-team goalkeeper, has been selected for an England Under 19 training camp at St George’s Park at the end of this month.