Oxford United vs Southend United preview - Roberts out for U's

Oxford will be without James Roberts when they host Southend, but the youngster's injury is not as bad as first feared.

The striker felt a twinge in his hamstring in the 0-0 draw at Dagenham last Saturday but he looks like he could return to first-team contention in two weeks.

While one forward drops out of the squad another could come in, with Patrick Hoban ready to feature on the bench for the first time since joining from Dundalk having overcome his injury.

Former Brighton striker Will Hoskins will be involved once more having been introduced as a substitute last weekend, ending his five-month groin injury nightmare.

Luke Prosser comes back into the reckoning for Southend following suspension.

Prosser served a one-match ban last Saturday and the Shrimpers' defensive options are boosted further by the signing of Adam Barrett, who was hugely popular during his first spell at Roots Hall between 2004 and 2010.

Jake Cassidy, another new signing this week, will also be pushing for a place in the team after joining on loan from Wolves.

Striker Barry Corr, who missed the goalless draw with Plymouth because of a back problem, could return to the squad. As could winger Kevan Hurst, after missing the last three games with a hamstring problem.