Oxford vs Southend preview
Monday 24 December 2018 13:30, UK
Oxford boss Karl Robinson could opt to name the same starting XI for the seventh League One game running when hosting Southend on Boxing Day.
Robinson restored five players after the 2-0 Checkatrade Trophy win over Tottenham Under-21s for Saturday's last-gasp 2-2 league draw at Doncaster.
The likes of Curtis Nelson and Josh Ruffels could be due a rest given the hectic festive schedule, but Robinson has enjoyed success with his settled line-up. Ricky Holmes is a doubt again with back trouble, with Armani Little poised to take a seat on the bench once more if required.
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Nathan Bishop could continue for Southend in goal having made his first league start in Saturday's 2-1 home defeat to Rochdale. The 19-year-old stepped in for Mark Oxley at the weekend, who was denied his 100th Shrimpers' appearance on Saturday due to a back injury.
Midfielder Harry Bunn remains a doubt for Southend, as he continues to fight back to fitness from a thigh injury suffered against Portsmouth on December 8. Defender Michael Turner could come into contention to start having taken a seat on the bench against Rochdale.
Opta stats
In all competitions, Oxford have won just two of their last 20 games against Southend United (D6 L12), although they are unbeaten in three (W1 D2).
Just one of Southend's 21 previous visits to Oxford United in the Football League has been drawn (11 Oxford wins, nine Southend), a goalless stalemate in March 1979.
Oxford United haven't had a home draw on Boxing Day in the Football League since 1977, a 3-3 draw with Swindon Town (W11 D0 L8 since then).
Southend United have won each of their last six league games on Boxing Day, the best ongoing run of all sides in the EFL.
Oxford United manager Karl Robinson has won each of his last three home league games against Southend United.
