JAMIE Mackie would welcome some help up front at Oxford United after admitting this was the first time in his 15-year career that he has not had competition for his shirt.

The veteran netted his fourth goal of the season when he came off the bench in Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Fleetwood Town.

Mackie played despite still recovering from a back problem, but he has had little chance to rest.

With Jon Obika ruled out for the season in October with a knee problem and the out-of-favour Sam Smith having his loan cut short, the 33-year-old has been United’s only viable front man for weeks.

Karl Robinson and United’s recruitment team are scouring the market to make two signings this month.

Reinforcing in your position is normally a cause for concern, but Mackie knows it is essential to fulfil the potential of the team – and himself.

“We need bodies in, I know that,” he said.

“I’ve loved it in the sense of playing every week, which was my aim.

“I look after myself, but when you get older and there’s loads of games, you need to go into them fresh to give yourself the best opportunity.

“I certainly haven’t moaned, I’ve been excited to play, but at the same time you want to produce your best.

“It’s very hard to be ‘at it’ as an attacking player if you’re playing every minute of every game.

“Everywhere I’ve been I’ve always had competition and that’s what gets the best out of you, because you don’t want to give your shirt up.”

He added: “Most clubs would have two, three or even four centre forwards all vying for one or two spots.

“It’s good because at 60 minutes you can make a change.”

Robinson has so far been frustrated in his attempts to strengthen at the sharp end this month.

And Mackie sympathises with the task in hand.

He said: “January must be frustrating for managers and fans everywhere.

“It’s a very strange month and it’s not easy to move in or recruit in.”

United have experimented with Gavin Whyte as a makeshift striker when Mackie has been unavailable.

The winger struggled at Fleetwood, before setting up Mackie’s equaliser once he returned out wide.

“It’s a very tough position and let’s be honest, I think Gav’s got a massive future,” Mackie said.

“I think he’s a great lad and he’s got a massive chance of going on and achieving massive things, but it’s not going to be as a centre forward.

“Gav will play anywhere for the team, but when he goes out wide he’s very natural and that’s his best position.”