OXFORD City boss Mark Jones believes the addition of talented young striker Sam Nombe will give his side a big lift.

The 20-year-old had a successful loan spell at the Vanarama National League South side last season, and has been re-signed, initially on a two-month deal, from Milton Keynes Dons.

Nombe went close to scoring on his reappearance for the club on Tuesday night, and Jones is hoping he will continue to flourish, starting with tomorrow’s trip to Hampton & Richmond.

“Sam’s return is a real boost for us,” City’s boss said.

“I thought he looked really sharp, especially in the first half, on Tuesday.

“I think he showed just how important a player he could be for us over the next few months.”

He added: “I was talking to MK Dons for quite a while to do the ground work to get him back in.

“We can’t expect miracles with him every week, but I’m pleased he’s returned.”

City take on a side tomorrow who have suffered a dip in form in recent weeks, although like their visitors, they have a plum Emirates FA Cup tie on the horizon – a home televised clash with Oldham Athletic on November 12.

He said: “I think Hampton’s league form has been affected a bit by their cup run, rather like our own, so it will be a tight game.

“I was really encouraged by our first half in midweek against Chippenham, and felt we should have been leading at half-time.

“I was encouraged that we kept going though, and got a draw out of the game after going behind just after the break.”

Although City have a trip to Tranmere Rovers on the horizon, Jones is insisting that their primary focus is on tomorrow.

“We obviously have a massive FA Cup tie next weekend, but the Hampton game is all we are focused on right now.

“I know our league form isn’t great, but it’s not as if we are having an absolute shocker. We’ve only lost two of our last seven games.

“I think being away from home may take a little bit of pressure off the lads and the game can be a little bit more open.”

Jones is able to name an unchanged squad.

Oxford City (v Hampton & Richmond, away): from King, Wiltshire, Jefford, Ashby, Godwin-Malife, Oastler, McEachran, Fleet, Tshimanga, Sinclair, Jones, Caro, Musonda, Eze, Carter, Otudeko, Fasanmade, Bawling, Nombe.