PATRICK Hoban is yet to get off the mark for Oxford United, but Michael Collins believes the Irishman has given the side a different threat.

The 23-year-old has started the last four games and while the former Dundalk striker is waiting to find the net, the performances have not gone unnoticed by his teammates.

Collins thinks the physical presence has given United an extra option to get the ball forward quickly.

The midfielder said: “It allows you to get a few yards further up the pitch because you know it’s sticking.

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“That’s not being disrespectful to the other strikers because they’ve done a good job up there this season, but it makes a massive difference.

“Some of the top players in the world – Alan Shearer when he was playing and Harry Kane at the moment – they get hold of it and bring others into play.

“I’m not going to put Pat in that ilk just yet, but that’s the thing you look for in a striker and he’s doing that outstandingly at the moment.”

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