OXFORD United are due to hold a conference call this afternoon to discuss their plans for signing a free agent.

Head coach Karl Robinson first raised the possibility last month following an injury to Jamie Hanson.

Outside of the transfer window, players without a team are the only option for clubs in the EFL and Premier League.

Since losing Hanson, United's need for cover has increased with George Thorne and Ben Woodburn sidelined with medium-term injuries.

Robinson intends to speak with United chairman Sumrith 'Tiger' Thanakarnjanasuth this afternoon, while head of recruitment Mark Thomas is also due to be involved after returning from holiday.

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But the U's boss is well aware time is of the essence.

Given free agents are likely to be training on their own, it will take longer to get them up to match fitness the more time passes.

And Robinson knows it is almost a case of now or never.

"100 per cent," he said.

"It’s such a fine balancing act and does it take away from what we do in January?

"Do these people want a full season or are they only willing to come for three months?

"I’m very conscious of what a good dressing room we’ve got, so it’s a tricky one."