JORDAN Thorniley is set for a brief spell on the sidelines with an ankle knock picked up at Bristol City.

The 26-year-old centre back hobbled off during the last 10 minutes of the 5-1 defeat in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.

Oxford United head coach Liam Manning has confirmed Thorniley will be out of action, as he looks certain to miss the trips to Derby County and Barnsley next week.

READ ALSO: Liam Manning pleased with first three points after ‘challenging week’

Manning said: “He’s seeing a specialist on Monday. It’s an ankle injury, which we’re not entirely sure of the extent of it.

“We don’t expect to see him in the next week or so.”

Oxford Mail: Click here to sign up to the Oxford United newsletter Click here to sign up to the Oxford United newsletter (Image: Newsquest)

Thorniley was replaced by Stephan Negru for yesterday’s 1-0 win at home to Carlisle United, and the young Irish defender has made a big impression on Manning.

“Steph’s not fazed by it, that’s what I love about him,” the U’s boss said.

“When we came in at the end of last season, if we hadn’t of been in the battle we were in, I think he probably would’ve played a lot earlier.

“I think he’s got some terrific potential and it’s now about putting a run of performances together.

“I like the fact that the first thing he wants to do is defend – he wants to head it and he wants to clear it.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how he progresses.”

About the author

To sign up to Liam’s latest Oxford United newsletter for free, click here: https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/newsletters/

Formerly the politics reporter for the Oxford Mail, Liam now covers all things Oxford United.

Liam attends the U’s home and away, as well as covering other big sports stories across the county.

His Oxford United newsletter is released every Saturday morning at 6am.