Oxford United vs Braintree Town - Michael Appleton could shuffle Oxford's pack for FA Cup replay against Braintree

Posted Monday, November 16, 2015 by PA

Oxford boss Michael Appleton could make a number of changes to the side when they host Braintree Town in their Emirates FA Cup first-round replay.

Kenny Davis cancelled out Ryan Taylor's opener as the U's were held to a 1-1 draw at the Shay eight days ago and after keeping pace with Sky Bet League 2 leaders Plymouth with a win against Cambridge, Appleton could rotate his starting XI.

Skipper Jake Wright should feature after missing the last four games with a back problem while Taylor, who has scored four goals in three games, could retain his place up front as he returned from suspension to score the winner last weekend.

Kemar Roofe may drop to the bench after recovering from a should problem to start against Cambridge as Oxford travel to Dagenham & Redbridge in the league on Saturday.

Sim Akinola is a major doubt for Braintree's trip to the Kassam Stadium after suffering a calf strain on the weekend.

Sam Habergham suffered from a dead leg in Saturday's 6-3 win at Halifax and could join Akinola on the sidelines.

Top goalscorer Michael Cheek is deemed 50-50 after suffering a bruised back on Saturday.

There are also injury doubts about Remy Clerima, Matt Paine, Davis and Taylor Miles but there is better news as both Anthony Edgar and Ibra Sekajja have come through fitness tests and should be fit to play.