OXFORD City manager Paul Lee has a major injury crisis going into tonight's FA Cup first-round replay at Wycombe Wanderers.

Three key players who were instrumental in City's heroic 1-1 draw nine days ago must undergo late fitness tests before they step on the coach for Adams Park.

Strikers Dwaine Strong (groin strain) and Stewart McCleary (knee ligaments) are doubtful, while ex-Reading defender Michael Thorp has aggravated an ankle injury. The three players are rated 50/50 by Lee.

Nine days ago, his bold tactic of fielding three strikers worked a treat and ensured City were able to relieve the pressure on their hard-working defence with some sweeping counter attacks. But with two attackers doubtful, Lee will have to change his plans.

He said: "It's going to be much more difficult this time. Their pride has been hurt and I am a bit apprehensive."

City, who forfeited ground advantage for the replay, are still capable of scoring goals, however. Key striker Jason Davy is fully fit after Lee rested him on Saturday, bringing him on as a late substitute in the 2-1 defeat away to fellow FA Cup survivors Whyteleafe. He is likely to be partnered up front by Tate Hulbert. Central defender Richard Peirson scored the equaliser at Adams Park and hasn't looked back since. He has found the target in the last two games and is now City's joint-leading scorer with six, a total he shares with Andy Smith.

Smith missed the draw with Wycombe, but is looking to make up for that at Adams Park tonight.

Another key player set to return for City is Terry Morrisey, who also missed the last round through injury and turned out for the reserves on Saturday.

The right-back's clinical crosses could take Wycombe by surprise and add another dimension to City's game.

For Wycombe, defender Matt Lawrence returns to the squad following a three-match suspension. Skipper Keith Ryan missed Saturday's 1-1 draw with Bristol Rovers due to a dead leg and must undergo a late fitness test.

It will be a tall order for City to pull off a giant-killing tonight. Extra-time and penalties will come in to play if required. City chairman Mick Woodley is expecting a minimum of 250 travelling supporters and hoping for around 500. Whatever the result, City will earn themselves an estimated £25,000 from these two matches at Adams Park.

THE winner of tonight's match will be at home to Wigan in the second round and if City get through, they could well play the match at Court Place Farm.

Oxford City: from Foster, Smart, Morrisey, Dark, Peirson, Hayward, Sweeney, Lee, Wimble, Emsden, Hulbert, Davy, Potter, Tassell, Thorpe, McCleary, Strong.

WYCOMBE will wear their new yellow away kit as City are the 'home' team - although Paul Lee's men will use the away dressing room.

FORMER City manager Andy Thomas, who works at Mayfield Press, has been involved in the production of a special 70-page programme (cost £2) for the replay. City chairman Mick Woodley said: "It is probably the best we have ever produced."

WYCOMBE are red-hot 1-5 favourites with Ladbrokes to win the tie inside 90 minutes. City are 11-1 outsiders with the draw 4-1.

CITY fans will be able to use the Vere Suite, which usually carries a £2 entry, free of charge along with Wycombe fans tonight.

Story date: Tuesday 09 November

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