Manager Justin Merritt could give debuts to the ex-Oxford United quartet of Lee Steele, Richard Knight, Matt Day and Michael Alexis as Oxford City begin their quest for Zamaretto Southern League Premier Division promotion when they host Cambridge City on Saturday.

Last season, City just missed out on the end-of-season shake-up, but Merritt says his side are better equipped this time around.

Steele has signed from Northwich, while goalkeeper Richard Knight has been brought in from Brackley to replace Ryan Harrison (now Weymouth), and defender Matt Day has signed a one-year deal after being released by United where he made 86 appearances, 25 of them as substitute and scored seven goals Former Abingdon United midfielder Alexis has put pen to paper following his recovery from the broken leg he suffered 18 months ago.

He scored the winner for City in their 2-1 pre-season victory against Oxford United.

Merritt said: “Michael has done well for us and has earned himself a place in the squad. Hopefully Michael can push on and get back to being the player he was two years ago.

“Matt is still fairly young, but he has a lot of experience. He’s very good with the ball and is a strong lad. He should be a very good defender for us because last season we shipped too many goals. He’s good at coming forward and has excellent ability.”

Merritt, will be without winger Michael Lyon for the first three months of the season with a broken leg, added: “Our aim is to improve on last season and at least make the play-offs.

“It’s not going to be easy, but we have got much more experience than last year. We have a stronger squad.”

IN: Lee Steele (Northwich), Michael Alexis (Abingdon Utd), Matt Day (Oxford Utd), Richard Knight (Brackley Tn).

OUT: James Faulkner (Aylesbury FC), Ryan Harrison (Weymouth), Steve Davis (Banbury Utd).