NOW that Oxford United know who will they will face and when in the third tier next season, they can ramp up preparations and set about getting off to a strong start.

The U’s have been slow starters in recent seasons, but managed to somewhat buck that trend in the last campaign.

United won three of their first five last season in Sky Bet League One, however then went four without a win.

The season before though, the U’s won two of their first eight, and picked up three points just once in the first seven league matches of the 2019/20 season.

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While United still managed to reach the play-offs in those latter two campaigns, picking up wins from day one must be the aim in what will surely be another tight and challenging season in League One.

Getting to October unbeaten will be tough but shouldn’t be out of the question.

The home games, with the exception of MK Dons, are arguably all matches that on paper, should be won.

Plymouth Argyle away could be a tricky fixture, but again there should be little to frighten Karl Robinson’s side before what could be a crunch month in October.

Obviously, a lot can happen between now and the season kicking off, with transfers, early managerial changes and injury crises playing a part.

There are factors off the pitch too, if United’s opening day opponents Derby County find a resolution to their problems.

As it stands, it should be full steam ahead though.