Oxford United midfielder Simon Clist says he’s plea-sed to have been able to contribute something for the team last Saturday in what for him has been an injury-plagued season.

But he knows he has to try to do that consistently to stand any chance of breaking into the side.

The 29-year-old former Bristol City, Torquay and Forest Green player missed the start of the season after recovering from a hernia operation, and other niggling injuries have followed.

And with United’s midfield trio of Simon Heslop, Josh Payne and Asa Hall performing well nearly every week, Clist appreciates that he has to make an impact when he does come on – as he did against Northampton by winning a stoppage-time penalty – to get himself noticed.

“It was nice to play a part in the game on Saturday and to contribute something,” said Clist, who made 40 starts in the Conference last season, but has yet to make one in the League this campaign.

“It is frustrating not to have been involved more, but I can’t have any complaints because I have been injured and the lads that have played have done well.

“I’m happy to keep working hard until I get my chance and try to contribute when I do get an opportunity.

“When I do get a chance, that’s when I’ve got to be ready for it.”

After the summer op, Clist has had other small injuries.

“I’ve had others relating to the way I run since the operation . . . it’s caused a few problems.

“It’s hard to get that fitness back, and that’s limited my chance of getting a regular place.”

Clist knows, however, that an injury for one of the regulars could mean stepping up to the plate.

“It’s a squad game,” he said. “You see through the season there’s already been injuries for the team (notably Damian Batt and Jake Wright).

“You’ve got to be ready and we’ve got a good depth in our squad, people who can come in and replace them and do well.”

Clist has been pencilled in for United’s reserve team against Luton tonight, but is rated only 50-50.