MIDFIELDER Paul Tait is definitely out of Oxford United's Nationwide League Division 2 encounter with Stoke City this afternoon.

And first-team coach Mickey Lewis will wait until the last minute before naming his line-up, with injury doubts still surrounding several players.

Skipper Les Robinson and youngster Rob Folland have both recovered from their knocks, and Lewis expects Neil McGowan to be fit.

But United's big doubt is central defender Steve Davis, rated by Lewis as only 50-50 yesterday afternoon.

Tait came off at half-time with a knee injury in the midweek FA Cup victory over Shrewsbury Town, and has not recovered.

"I think the amount of games we have played has taken its toll on Paul," said Lewis.

"We'll have someone look at the injury to see exactly how serious it it is, but hopefully he'll only miss the one game."

"Neil McGowan should be fine, but we will wait and see if there is any reaction, while the decision on Steve Davis will be left until the last minute. He's 50-50."

If Davis doesn't make it, there will probably be a place in defence for Ross Weatherstone, who made an impressive debut in the derby win over Reading.

With Tait out and Robinson fit, it is likely that the United captain will play the midfield holding role that he took over from Tait against Shrewsbury.

Today's clash pits two in-form sides against each other, with two new managers.

United have not lost in eight under Lewis, while Stoke, now under the control of Gudjon Thordarson, have lost just one in 15.

Story date: Saturday 04 December

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