OXFORD United are in a false position in the Sky Bet League One table, according to Walsall manager Dean Keates.

The Saddlers, who stayed up by just two points last season, have been the division’s surprise package so far.

Despite losing their unbeaten start with a 4-1 home reverse to Doncaster Rovers last weekend, they will arrive at the U’s tomorrow 17 places above their hosts.

But having done his homework on United, Keates (pictured) thinks they will not be in the lower reaches for long.

He told the Express & Star: “I wouldn’t look at the league table regarding them at all.

“The games we have watched they are a very, very good team. It’s going to be a difficult game for us.

“They played really good football at Wycombe at the weekend. We have had them watched the previous couple of games and they are a good team.

“I think, when you look at the league table, their position is a little bit false.

“They won’t be there at the end of the season.”

Walsall were hit by a sickness bug against Doncaster, but the squad have now recovered.

Keates said: “Overall everyone is fine. Other than their pride, that was the only knock they have had.”