Two minute guide to: Oxford United
Here’s our brief guide to opponents Oxford United who will take on Port Vale in a televised match on Monday night.
Man in charge?
Chris Wilder has been in charge since 2008 and has a record of 90 wins, 56 losses and 49 draws.
Last time we met
The two sides met in the final game of last season where goals from Marc Richards, Sen Rigg (pictured) and Ben Williamson earned Vale a deserved 3-0 victory.
Overall record
The two sides have met 29 times. Vale have won 9, Oxford have won 11 and there have been nine draws.
Featured connections
Two players will be facing their former clubs. Sean Rigg moved to Oxford in the summer while Vale’s Ryan Burge had a spell on loan at Oxford in 2011.
Other connections
Lewis Haldane, who sadly retired earlier this month had a spell at Oxford. Notable figures to appear for both sides include Vale greats Martin Foyle (pictured) and Brian Horton (who has also managed both sides).
Other players to appear for both sides include Levi Reid, Michael Husbands, Craig Davies (pictured), Sam Stockley, Martin Aldridge (RIP), Chris Allen, John Durnin, Arjan van Heusden and Mick Morris.
Team news
Skipper Doug Loft is injured and will miss out, but senior keeper Chris Neal is expected to return in place of midweek cup hero Sam Johnson.
Defender Johnny Mullins is expected to return for Oxford, while captain Jake Wright is also set to come back in.
Pre-match quotes
“I had a terrific experience at Vale Park, but you can’t afford to be sentimental…. I think they might give me a bit of stick, but I can use it to motivate me to prove them wrong.”
– Sean Rigg
“We’ll be playing to a wider audience and we’re looking forward to it. It’s a chance for everyone to showcase themselves, both as individuals and as a team, and I’ll be disappointed if we don’t put on a show.”
– Micky Adams
“I’m not surprised how well they (Port Vale) are going because I know how good the manager is. This year they have started well and it’s fully deserved with all the problems they have had.”
– Chris Wilder
Trivia
Local band All the Young are the match sponsors for Monday night’s game.