MARK Jones is backing his Oxford City players to build on a positive pre-season when they begin their Vanarama National League South campaign tomorrow, writes PATRICK LOCK.

Concord Rangers are the visitors to Court Place Farm, with the hosts set to hand debuts to their four summer signings.

Stefan Brown, Danny Rowe, Nana Owusu and Finn Tapp have all impressed during a

pre-season which saw City win three and draw two of their six warm-up games – their only defeat coming against neighbours Oxford United, having led 3-1.

“All-in-all, we’ve been satisfied with pre-season,” said boss Jones, whose side played out a goalless draw with Cardiff Metropolitan University last weekend.

“The players’ attitudes have been good, and we haven’t had to question their work rate or application at all.

“It was a really good work-out for us at Cardiff.

“I thought they were a well-organised, athletic side with some good players, and it was a good competitive game.”

Jones added: “We’re very much looking forward to the season starting.

“Concord will be very competitive, they’ll work hard for their manager and club, so we’ve got to make sure we’re fully prepared.”

City have had the luxury of keeping together most of the squad which finished 12th last season.

Jones retained 13 players over the summer, but did lose top-scorer Kabongo Tshimanga to National League outfit Boreham Wood.

However, the City boss has been pleased with the look of his squad.

He said: “The new players have all integrated themselves into the group well. The spirit in the camp is good.”

With United beginning their Sky Bet League One campaign at Sunderland, City are offering U’s season ticket holders, who are not making the trip to the Stadium of Light, an incentive – £2 off the advertised ticket price – to pay a visit to Court Place Farm.

Jones added: “We’d like as many locals (as possible) to come down and support us.

“If there are any Oxford United fans who aren’t making the trip (to Sunderland), I know the club are offering a discount to season ticket holders, and so it would be good for us to get a big crowd.”

PLAYERS IN

Stefan Brown (Wealdstone), Danny Rowe (Hemel Hempstead), Nana Owusu (Maidenhead Utd), Finn Tapp (MK Dons).

PLAYERS OUT

Kabongo Tshimanga (Boreham Wood), Ryan Case (Dulwich Hamlet), Bobson Bawling (St Albans), Tom Carter (released), John O’Donoghue (released).

TOMORROW’S SQUAD

Oxford City (vs. Concord Rangers): from King, Caro, Oastler, Jones, Jefford, Tapp, Moore-Azille, Ashby, Fleet, McEachran, Self, Wiltshire, Owusu, Rowe, Fasanmade, Brown.