Oxford United unlikely to sign left back before Sunderland

Boss Karl Robinson had been hoping to bring in cover before the weekend for Josh Ruffels, who damaged shoulder ligaments in the defeat at Lincoln City last Saturday.

But while he did not rule out something dropping at the last minute, there odds are against a new face arriving.

Robinson said: "You don’t know what’s going to come up this afternoon.

"I’m not going to say 100 per cent it’s a no but we don’t think it’s going to happen right now."

Part of the reason United aren't making a huge push to get a deal over the line is Ruffels' strong progress in his rehabilitation.

Also read: Oxford United boss on how injuries impact his transfer plans

While initially expected to be ruled out for between three and five weeks, Robinson feels the left back could even be involved at Accrington Stanley next weekend.

He said: "There’s a glimmer of hope, depending on his recovery, that he could be available a week on Saturday.

"Accrington may be to soon, but it’s only two league games (he would miss)."

John Mousinho's knee injury will be scanned this afternoon, which will give a clearer indication on how long the centre back will be sidelined.

Meanwhile, Matty Taylor and Mark Sykes - who picked up hip and groin niggles against Lincoln - were only due to take part in some elements of training today.

They will be assessed tomorrow to see if either can be involved against Sunderland on Saturday.