Oxford United vs Cambridge United - Jake Wright missing for Oxford's clash with Cambridge

Posted Friday, November 13, 2015 by PA

Oxford are likely to be without captain Jake Wright for the Sky Bet League Two visit of Cambridge.

The 29-year-old has not featured in the Us' last three games due to a back problem and manager Michael Appleton does not think he will have his skipper available for the weekend.

"He's struggling for Saturday but knowing Jake he will want to be back for the FA Cup replay against Braintree next Tuesday, or certainly for the league game at Dagenham if not," he told Yellow Player.

Despite the continued absence of Wright, there is better news for Oxford who welcome Ryan Taylor and Johnny Mullins back from suspension, while Kemar Roofe is fit after a shoulder problem.

New Cambridge manager Shaun Derry feels he can help inject renewed confidence into the squad following his appointment as successor to Richard Money.

United sit 18th in League Two, and the former Notts County boss wants to see his new side hit the ground running.

He said: "We have a blend of players here and I feel they can go on to the next level and that's the message I've given to them - you've enjoyed yourself, you've propelled yourself and this club into the Football League and I feel we can take it further."

Assistant Joe Dunne, who also worked under Money, will help Derry get the lowdown on the squad ahead of his first team selection having taken caretaker charge for the FA Cup victory over Basingstoke.

Defender Josh Coulson could be back in contention following his calf problem, while midfielder Keith Keane has also stepped up his rehabilitation following a groin operation last month.