KARL Robinson plans to name a strong line-up for today’s Emirates FA Cup clash with Bristol Rovers.
It is eight days since Oxford United were last in action and first-team players were given the early part of this week off, with some coming in for optional training on Thursday.
Cameron Brannagan returns from illness, while Robinson suggested last Saturday that Nathan Holland would not be risked after going off with a calf injury against Morecambe.
Simon Eastwood continues in goal, but with Kie Plumley cup-tied and Mackenzie Chapman on loan at Banbury United another young keeper could be on the bench.
Elliott Moore: Cup run has multiple benefits for Oxford United
Whoever is involved for today’s first-round tie (1pm), Robinson insists the U’s intend to fight on two fronts.
The head coach said: “We will make some changes, there are a few players who won’t be available for different reasons.
“We won’t risk players who are carrying little knocks, I don’t think it’s right.
“It’ll be a team that’s ultra-competitive, whatever team we put on the pitch at the moment does the job.
“We wanted to go through in the Papa John’s Trophy and fell short.
“It’s a competition that you always want to do well in and I’d be disappointed if we got knocked out in the first round.”
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