AN injury to James Roberts has put Will Hoskins in contention to start for Oxford United tomorrow.

The U’s will have to make a change up front for the visit of Southend United, with Roberts due to be out for at least a fortnight with a hamstring injury sustained at Dagenham & Redbridge last weekend.

Hoskins played the final 16 minutes of the goalless draw on his return after four months out with a groin problem.

He is unlikely to play 90 minutes, but could be asked to play from the start.

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Head coach Michael Appleton said: “If Will can give us 70 per cent of what I know he’s capable of I would be happy, as long as he stays fit.

“He could start, whether he’s fit enough to last 90 minutes is another story.”

After so long on the sidelines, Hoskins is raring to get back in the side.

He said: “The aim is to get as many minutes as I can.

“My hand is up, I’m fit and available, so I’m looking forward to getting back and in amongst it.”

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