Ian Atkins has told Jefferson Louis that the suspension of Julian Alsop could be his big chance.

Jefferson LouisAlthough the Oxford United manager is looking at bringing in another striker to help his side through January after Alsop's appeal to overturn his red card at Huddersfield was thrown out last week, he has hinted that Louis could be given a chance.

Alsop's five-match ban means that he misses key matches at Swansea and Hull, as well as home games against Lincoln, Scunthorpe and Kidderminster.

While the U's boss would love to bring in a new face, it is unlikely anyone will join up with the squad before the trip to Swansea's Vetch Field tomorrow - meaning Louis could get the nod.

"I have great faith in Jefferson, and this could be the time for him to show us what he can do again," Atkins said.

"He was absolutely brilliant at Bury in what was probably our best performance of the season so far, and has maybe been a little unlucky not to figure more often.

"But he has that presence that opposition defences do not like, and has proved that he can be a big handful.

"That isn't saying that I don't think he can do a lot more, because he can, but I would certainly have no problems in playing him."

Louis has made just three league starts this season, and has been restricted to a handful of substitute appearances.

The former Thame United player was completely out of favour at the start of the season, and was sent out on loan to Conference side Woking, where he netted five goals in just over a month.

And although he scored on his return to United in the Carling Cup clash with Reading at the Kassam Stadium, he has failed to hold down a permanent place since.

Atkins says that the Swansea game could be ideal for Louis.

"I remember last season when he came on against Swansea at home, he completely changed the match," the manager said.

"It is going to be a very difficult game, but it could be the type of match that suits Jefferson. Swansea will be playing high up the pitch and he can use his pace to get in behind the defence."

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