JOHNNY Mullins has not given up hope of playing for Oxford United again this season, if they can reach the play-offs.

The defender was told he would miss the rest of the campaign with a metatarsal injury picked up against Chesterfield three weeks ago.

Mullins, pictured, has been in a protective boot ever since, which is due to come off in about ten days’ time.

The medical advice is to focus on building towards pre-season, but if United reached the Sky Bet League Two play-offs the situation could change.

The semi-final dates, released on Tuesday, are the two weekends after the end of the regular season, while the final is not until May 26.

While Mullins is cautious, he has not ruled out a return, if the U’s can finish in the top seven.

“I haven’t, but the physio keeps saying take it slowly,” he said.

“Once I get this stupid thing off my foot maybe I’ll be a bit clearer.

“I don’t want to set myself a target and I’m sure the physio is the same, he doesn’t want to set a date and then if you don’t make it, it’s a bit more disappointing.

“I’ve just got to keep my head down and support the boys.”

For the time being, Mullins is reduced to the role of cheerleader.

He joked: “I can get my pom poms out, my daughters have got a couple, so I might have to borrow them for Saturday.”

Mullins will be watching on as Fleetwood Town visit the Kassam Stadium tomorrow, in what will be head coach Gary Waddock’s first home game in charge.

“The lads are raring to go, it’s the new gaffer’s first home game, so hopefully we can get three points,” the defender added.