MICHAEL Appleton will use the final four games of the season to look at more of his fringe players, but is demanding Oxford United end their campaign on a high, writes MARK EDWARDS.

The U’s head coach brought in Jamie Ashdown and Andy Whing for Saturday’s 0-0 draw at AFC Wimbledon and will give others their chance in the remaining matches.

Appleton wants to give members of the United squad a chance to stake their claim to remain at the club next season, but is mindful of their responsibility to both the league and their supporters.

“I want to look at as much of the squad as I can, but we still want to win the games and still put out a strong side in every match,” he said.

“It wasn’t the best game, there wasn’t much football played, but to be fair to the defensive-minded players and the goalkeeper, we defended very well.


“I was disappointed with our attacking play and that was obvious for everyone to see.”

Ashdown was handed a first start for United, with Whing coming in after almost two months out the side.

“Andy did that job in front of Akinfenwa quite well,” Appleton said.

“You know what you’re getting from him and we felt it was a good game to get him involved.”

Although he was ultimately pleased with a point, Appleton knows his attacking players need to do better in the remaining matches.

Patrick Hoban limped off after 32 minutes and United’s attacking threat largely disappeared.

“We got a bit disjointed when Pat went off,” Appleton said.

“All of a sudden we had a different pairing there and the ball wasn’t sticking. We didn’t produce in wide areas.

“There are loads of positives because from a defensive point of view, we actually did very well.

“But we know we can do much better going forward.”