Bristol Rovers vs Oxford United - Rory Gaffney in contention to start against Oxford

Posted Friday, August 12, 2016 by PA

Rory Gaffney should return to the Bristol Rovers attack for the Sky Bet League One clash with Oxford.

Gaffney was the only player from the opening league game at Scunthorpe not selected for Thursday's EFL Cup victory over Cardiff.

Rovers boss Darrell Clarke will consider the effects of that extra-time success before finalising his side to take on opponents promoted alongside the Pirates last season.

Lee Mansell and Liam Lawrence have yet to feature this season after suffering pre-season injuries and might miss out again.

Aside from long-term absentees Rob Hall and Christian Ribeiro, Oxford do not have many fresh injury concerns following their victory over Birmingham in the EFL Cup on Tuesday.

The only new doubt, having come off as a precaution against the Championship side, is striker Wes Thomas, who had felt tightness in his groin last week against Chesterfield despite scoring in the 1-1 draw.

It is unclear whether Chey Dunkley will be available after hobbling off with hamstring problem on Saturday, but Aaron Martin will likely be involved after returning to the side against Birmingham.U's boss Michael Appleton will once again be looking towards midfielder Liam Sercombe for inspiration, after his header in extra time set up a second-round EFL Cup tie with Brighton.