Oxford United vs Mansfield Town preview - Rasulo set for U's bow

Posted Friday, February 20, 2015 by PA

Oxford could hand Giorgio Rasulo a debut when they host Mansfield.

The MK Dons midfielder penned a loan deal until the end of the season on Thursday and is likely to be involved as United look to bounce back from two away defeats in five days.

And head coach Michael Appleton could ring the changes in a bid to turn around their fortunes with James Roberts and West Brom loanee Kemar Roofe pushing for inclusion.

George Baldock is likely to keep his place having made his U's debut last weekend but striker John Campbell has joined Torquay on loan.

John Dempster could make a long-awaited return to the Mansfield squad.

Dempster has not made a first-team appearance since August due to a groin injury but the defender may be among the substitutes on Saturday. However, fellow centre-half Michael Raynes (hamstring is set to miss out on a chance to face his old club.

Reggie Lambe is a doubt after a hamstring problem forced him off against Luton in midweek but Chris Clements should be involved again despite a cut ankle.

With Lambe likely to join long-term absentee Matt Blair on the sidelines, Stags boss Adam Murray is trying to sign a winger on loan in time for the trip.