JOSH Ruffels is hoping the weather forecast is correct for Oxford United's play-off games after training in the sweltering heat this week.

Temperatures have exceeded 30 degrees Celsius in the last few days, when the squad have stepped up their preparations to face Portsmouth.

It includes two warm-up games, which Ruffels admits have been a challenge.

"It's difficult," he said. "We're not used to this heat.

"It's usually pre-season and we're doing laps round the pitch and playing a few games in Spain at this time of year.

Also read: Oxford United urge fans to stay away from play-off games

"But I've had a look at the forecast and it looks like it could be raining, so fingers crossed that happens because to play in this heat is very tough."

As things stand relief is on the way.

The forecast on the south coast for the first leg is for just 18 degrees Celsius and light rain during the game on July 3, while there is a high of 22 degrees Celsius in Oxford for the second leg three days later.

Ruffels heads into the game with a clear head after United triggered the extra year in his contract to keep him at the club next season.

He said: "That option has been exercised by the club, so that's all been sorted.

"It's all done now, hopefully it will be in the Championship.

"It was all pretty straightforward, there were no worries about that at all."