Oxford United vs. Wrexham: Preview, Predictions and Lineups Wrexham will hope to build upon their positive momentum when they travel to face relegation-threatened Oxford United on Tuesday. The Red Dragons head into the match seventh in the EFL Championship table, just two points behind Hull City in the final playoff position. The teams that finish in the top two of the division receive automatic promotion to the Premier League, while the sides that finish between third and sixth compete in the end-of-season playoffs to decide the final promotion place. With only three matches left of the regular season, Wrexham must overcome the two-point deficit between themselves and Hull City, plus hold off the challenge from Derby County, who sit a point behind them. Oxford are 22nd in the EFL Championship table and know they realistically must win if they are to remain in the division next season. Wrexham will head into the match full of confidence after they recorded their most comfortable home victory of the season when they defeated Stoke City 2–0 last weekend. Phil Parkinson’s side know they must take care of their own business before they can dream of sneaking into the EFL Championship playoff positions. However, they have won just one of their last four away matches and know it will be tough to beat a team that is fighting for survival. The team’s tactical decisions in the upcoming match will be critical, particularly in goal and defense. Danny Ward, the goalkeeper, made just his fifth start of the season in the weekend win over Stoke City and appears to have earned the trust of Parkinson for the run-in. Ward’s inclusion in the starting lineup was a surprise, as he replaced the rotated Arthur Okonkwo, and he kept a clean sheet in the process.#wrexham #phil_parkinson #oxford_united #danny_ward #kassam_stadium
Oxford United Team News To Face Hull City at Home Oxford United will host Hull City in a crucial league fixture on Good Friday, marking their return to competitive action following the international break. Manager Matt Bloomfield has made two tactical adjustments to his starting lineup, with Ruben Roosken set to make his first home debut for the club. The Dutch midfielder replaces Jack Currie in the center of defense, while Northern Ireland forward Jamie Donley steps into the midfield role previously occupied by Brodie Spencer. The match, scheduled for a 3:00pm kick-off, represents a key opportunity for the U’s to regain momentum in the league standings. The lineup for the encounter includes goalkeeper Cumming, defenders Long, Brown, Konak, Helik, and Brannagan, alongside midfielders Mills, Lankshear, and Peart-Harris. Donley’s inclusion adds an attacking dimension, while Roosken’s arrival brings fresh energy to the squad. Bloomfield’s substitutions reflect a strategic focus on balancing defensive solidity with offensive creativity, particularly as the team looks to capitalize on their home advantage. The match will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, given the significance of the fixture in the league race. Oxford United’s recent form has been mixed, and a victory against Hull City could provide a much-needed confidence boost. The club has encouraged supporters to follow the action in real-time through its official social media channels, ensuring fans remain engaged with updates throughout the game. The lineups and substitutions highlight the tactical flexibility of Bloomfield’s approach, as he seeks to address the challenges posed by Hull City’s attacking threat. With both teams vying for crucial points, the match promises to be a test of resilience and adaptability.#hull_city #matt_bloomfield #oxford_united #ruben_roosken #jamie_donley
Saints head coach Tonda Eckert anticipates that at least one of Ross Stewart and Leo Scienza will be fit to face Oxford United in the upcoming Championship clash. The Saints, currently hosting the 22nd-placed team, aim to correct a 2-1 defeat to Oxford on Boxing Day. Both Stewart and Scienza missed the previous two matches due to muscle tightness and a groin injury, respectively. Eckert expressed optimism that one of the players will be available for the game, stating, "The questions are going to be for two players and they've both been on the pitch today. I'm quite positive that at least one of them is going to be available." Welington and Jay Robinson returned to training this week, but they were not mentioned during Eckert's press conference, suggesting the match is likely too soon for their inclusion. The coach emphasized confidence in his squad's energy, citing recent games against Fulham, West Brom, Coventry, and Norwich. "I have no doubt, because I think we've always been able to turn it on for games. I think it will be exactly the same for this one," Eckert added. The Saints' focus remains on addressing their recent loss and securing a positive result against Oxford United.#tonda_eckert #oxford_united #saints #ross_stewart #leo_scienza
Oxford's Bloomfield praises 'incredible job' done by Eckert Oxford United manager Matt Bloomfield has commended Saints head coach Tonda Eckert for his "incredible job" since taking over at St Mary's. The 33-year-old coach has led Southampton from 21st place in the Championship to a position inside the top six, with eight games remaining in the season. Eckert now appears set to guide the team into the play-offs, with promotion to the Premier League within reach. Bloomfield, who has saved Oxford United from the brink of relegation and left them just one point from safety, praised Eckert ahead of their upcoming match against Southampton. "They are a very, very good team. One of, if not the, in-form team in the league. It’s going to be a very stern test for us," he said. Bloomfield highlighted the quality of Southampton's squad, noting the presence of players who have competed in the Premier League and were signed for significant fees. "They’ve got some fantastic players, lots that have played in the Premier League, been recruited for millions and are very well coached," he added. The manager emphasized the challenge posed by Southampton, stating that Oxford must be at their best to secure a result. "We know we’re up against a very tough team tomorrow, so we’re going to have to be at our best if we’re going to take something from the game," he said. Bloomfield also acknowledged Eckert’s ability to manage an elite squad, calling his work "a fantastic job." "They’ve got such an elite group of players for this league, but he’s done a fantastic job," he said. Bloomfield took charge of Oxford United in January after Southampton’s visit to Kassam Stadium, and has earned 16 points from his 12 Championship matches.#southampton #st_mary_s #tonda_eckert #matt_bloomfield #oxford_united
