ELLIOTT Moore is hoping to crown an unforgettable few months by helping Oxford United achieve promotion.

The defender’s experience of the coronavirus lockdown has been even more life-changing than most, after he became a father on March 22.

The enforced break from football means the 23-year-old has been able to spend plenty of time with partner Phoebe and their daughter Harper Rose.

While Moore admits the restrictions have made it a challenging three months, the centre back has loved the unexpected paternity leave.

But with United’s Sky Bet League One play-off semi-final against Portsmouth a little over two weeks away, the defender is upping the intensity in training.

And he knows that 2020 will be even more special if United reach the Championship.

“It came at a time when it was hard for us, being in lockdown with no family or football,” he said.

“No-one’s been able to come round and help us out, so that’s been tough.

“But I can’t say I haven’t enjoyed getting to spend 12 weeks with my little girl.”

Moore added: “It’s one I won’t forget on and off the field, it’s been a crazy year already.

“Hopefully after all this we can top it off by getting promoted –that would be a great feeling.”

Moore played in the last six matches before the season was suspended, with United winning five to soar into the play-offs.

The defender has been impressed with the standard since United returned to training, but they have already had to endure hiccups in their preparations.

The U’s confirmed two positive coronavirus tests last Friday, with both individuals self-isolating for four more days.

But Portsmouth also recorded two positive tests last week and Moore is expecting a level playing field when United visit Fratton Park for the first leg.

He said: “Every team has been in the same position, we’re all in the same boat.

“We haven’t taken the three months off for granted and everyone’s looking sharp.

“I don’t think anyone’s mindset has changed – we set out this season to get promoted and we’ve got a massive chance of still doing that.

“It’s the same goal we had at the start so we want to finish that off.”