Oxford vs Chesterfield - Ched Evans set for debut at Oxford side missing key trio

Posted Friday, August 05, 2016 by PA

Oxford begin life in Sky Bet League One without three key members of the side that earned them promotion last season.

Kemar Roofe, Danny Hylton and Callum O'Dowda have all departed this summer but the U's boast new signing Kane Hemmings in their ranks as they host Chesterfield.

Another new arrival, Rob Hall, could make his first start for the club, while Joe Rothwell and Chris Maguire could feature.

Alex MacDonald (hip) and Liam Sercombe (heel) remain sidelined.

Striker Ched Evans is preparing to play his first competitive game for over four years when Chesterfield travel to the Kassam Stadium.

The 27-year-old scored on his club debut in pre-season and was hailed as a "fabulous asset" by boss Danny Wilson earlier this week.

Goalkeeper Tommy Lee remains a long-term injury casualty following shoulder surgery, while midfielder Angel Martinez is recovering after a third knee operation.

Bermuda striker Rai Simons is sidelined by a hamstring injury but new signing Jon Nolan has impressed in pre-season after overcoming a pulled thigh.