Michael Duberry has had a slight setback in his recovery from a groin problem according to Oxford United manager Chris Wilder.

The former Chelsea and Leeds defender was expected to be out for around a month after picking up the injury before United’s trip to Southend on November 5.

But Wilder revealed yesterday that although the setback was not a serious one, it means that Duberry will not be in contention for tomorrow’s home game with Northampton.

He is now set to return for the game at Wimbledon on Boxing Day.

However, a big boost is that winger Alfie Potter will be back to face the Cobblers after overcoming his groin problem.

“Alfie has trained all this week, as has Tommy (Craddock), which is obviously good news,” Wilder said.

“Dubes, fingers crossed, will be ok for the AFC Wimbledon game.

“He’s had a touch of a setback, not a massive one where it has really knocked him back.

Paul McLaren (calf) again misses out, while Wilder had good news concerning Tony Capaldi.

The left back has yet to feature since his move to United in the summer, but has been able to increase his training.

“Tony has stepped his training up of late which is great news,” Wilder said.

“So we are getting there on the injury front.”