ELLIOT Lee's return will be a huge boost for Oxford United at Sky Bet League One leaders Hull City, says Karl Robinson.

The Luton Town loanee is available for Saturday's clash after a knee injury saw him miss the games against Charlton Athletic and Swindon Town.

It is good news for the U's, particularly as Cameron Brannagan and Mide Shodipo are doubtful after sustaining ankle knocks at the County Ground.

Even if all three are fit to play, United would still have five players in the treatment room.

Karl Robinson: People forget how tough our fixtures have been

But head coach Robinson knows how important Lee could be, with the forward having scored twice in his first seven appearances since joining in January.

"It's massive," he said.

“I think everyone’s seen the impact he’s had on the football club since he’s come in.

"His goals have been important and led us to gaining points.

"He’s a really likeable young man with a real desire to want to do well – not just because he’s on loan, but because he loves football.

"He’s engrossed in what we’re trying to achieve here and he’s really bought into our methods and philosophy.”

Robinson also revealed Sam Winnall could return as early as next Saturday's home match against Blackpool.

The striker injured his ankle at MK Dons on February 27 and the hope was for him to return before the end of the month.

Robinson said: “There’s a possibility he could be in the squad, but that’s at the mercy of how he does over the next seven days.

"There’s not a great deal of issues with the scan that he had, it’s just purely down to the swelling.”