MICHAEL Appleton says he has already selected Oxford United's starting XI for their three games ahead of the Checkatrade Trophy final at Wembley.

The U's boss made five changes for Saturday's 2-1 win against Scunthorpe United.

And he has planned ahead for which players will start against Bolton Wanderers at the Kassam Stadium tomorrow, Saturday's trip to Northampton Town and next Tuesday's home clash with Bury.

It comes as Appleton juggles United's challenge as outsiders for the Sky Bet League One play-offs along with the Wembley final against Coventry City on April 2.

He said: "The players know the teams (for the league games) have been picked and I’m not going to go back on that.

"I wanted to keep it as fresh as I possibly can to give us the best opportunity we can to bring silverware to the club.

"If we can make people feel uncomfortable along the way by winning some games (in League One) and having a right go in the next nine games then brilliant."

Appleton has no new injury worries ahead of the televised clash with second-placed Bolton.

Christian Ribeiro was left out on Saturday with a hip problem, but has recovered and will be available.