OXFORD United have already faced a few testing situations in the opening three months of the season, but head coach Michael Appleton feels his side may be about to take on their toughest yet.

Tomorrow’s visit of Cambridge United to the Kassam Stadium in Sky Bet League Two is the third game in six days.

And with another four in 14 to follow, the U's squad will be stretched to the limit.

After Cambridge, the U’s host Braintree Town in their Emirates FA Cup first round replay on Tuesday, before league fixtures against Dagenham & Redbridge, Newport County and Hartlepool United take up the rest of November.

United came through this week with their FA Cup status intact despite playing the last 20 minutes with ten men.

And on Wednesday a comfortable win at Dagenham saw them progress to the southern section semi-finals of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

Appleton has always stood by his decision to opt for quality over quantity in his squad.

And when asked if the next few weeks would be the toughest test yet for his players, his response was immediate.

“I think it is, definitely,” said Appleton.

“We knew we had a small squad at the start of the season and it seems to be getting smaller with injuries and suspensions, so it will be a test.

“But to be fair, so far the players have stood up to it – you can’t ask for any more.”

United’s squad has already started to show a bit of wear and tear with three first team players – Jake Wright, Kemar Roofe and Patrick Hoban – all having scans this week on their respective back and shoulder problems.

In addition, injuries and suspensions forced United to field a youthful side, which included teenagers AJ George and Robbie Cundy in the starting XI, for the 2-0 victory at Dagenham on Wednesday.

Josh Ashby, Sam Humphreys, Canice Carroll and Jonny Giles, who had three appearances between them before the tie, were among the substitutes.

While the next fortnight will be a test for United’s players, Appleton also accepted that it would be a crucial period for himself and his coaching staff.

However, it is a challenge the U’s boss is looking forward to.

“I think from my point of view, it is just as exciting,” he said.

“I don’t have to play the game, I just have to pick the right team that can win the matches.

“The worry is obviously the physical side of it.

“Just making sure what we do out on the training pitch is not too taxing and every time the players do go on the pitch the XI that start the game are as fresh as they can be.”

Appleton continued: “I suppose the only testing time from a manager’s point of view is making sure you have got as many players available, fit and ready to select from.

“I certainly prefer the headaches that you get from having a fully strength squad, as opposed to just selecting from those who you have available."