Brentford vs Oxford United - Brentford could have Mepham back in contention

Brentford could have defender Chris Mepham available again for the FA Cup third-round tie against Oxford.

Mepham has not featured since before Christmas because of an unspecified injury, but Bees boss Thomas Frank confirmed the Welshman was closing in on a return.

Midfielders Lewis Macleod (hamstring) and Emiliano Marcondes (ankle) continue their recoveries.

The Bees have no fresh injury concerns, but Frank is expected to rotate the team for the tie against the Sky Bet League One club.

Oxford will have Northern Ireland Under-21 midfielder Mark Sykes and Jordan Graham available for the trip to Griffin Park.

Sykes completed a permanent move from Glenavon, while winger Graham has joined the U’s on loan from Premier League Wolves.

Midfielder Cameron Brannagan is suspended after collecting two yellow cards in earlier FA Cup ties.

Right-back Tony McMahon has joined Scunthorpe United on loan until the end of the season.