OXFORD United’s festive attendances show the club is on the right track, says Karl Robinson.

The U’s welcomed 8,354 fans to the Kassam Stadium for the 3-2 defeat to Wigan Athletic, with 7,915 and 8,351 attending the win over AFC Wimbledon and draw with Cheltenham Town respectively.

It averages out at just over 8,200 for three matches that would not traditionally attract large numbers.

Yesterday, United sold the last of their 1,808 allocation for next weekend’s trip to Wycombe Wanderers.

Read also: Oxford United backed by sold-out away end at Wycombe

Big crowds are expected at their next three home games, against Sheffield Wednesday, Portsmouth and Bolton Wanderers, and the turnout has thrilled Robinson.

“That’s what this team has done,” the U’s head coach said.

“That’s why when you’re frustrated and want to walk down the tunnel it’s important to show your appreciation.

“We do that – win, lose or draw – and I think people believe in that.

“It shows respect to the people who pay their money to come and watch us.

“That continuity is so easily talked about when you’re winning, but it’s important to talk about it.

“That connection is going to grow stronger.

“Those are outstanding crowds for three games that wouldn’t normally reach those dizzy heights.

“It just shows you we’re going in the right direction.”