MATT Murphy's two-goal showing for the reserves has pushed his claims for a recall as Oxford United face bottom club Tranmere at the Manor Ground tomorrow.

"He's putting a little bit of pressure on people," Shotton admitted. "It's nice. We've had so many injuries we've not had that much competition for places."

Murphy is normally a midfie- lder, but is challenging also for the striking role he held before he collected a hamstring injury, and before Andy Thomson started to show some form.

Shotton intends stressing the importance of this Division 1 game to his players.

"If we're not getting points away from home it's imperative that we do ourselves some good here at the Manor.

"But Tranmere will be a tough match. They battered Birmingham last Saturday, play a holding game and Jones up front is a big, strong lad. They have players who can play and players who have muscle."

Rovers generally play a flat back four at Prenton Park and a wing backs system with just Gary Jones up front on their travels.

They have yet to win this season, but were impressive in the 2-2 draw at Birmingham.

Full back Andy Thompson is rated doubtful because of a knee injury, while John McGreal serves a one-match suspension after getting sent off against Swindon.

Talented 20-year-old midfielder Alan Mahon has been called up by the Republic of Ireland for their Under 21 international and although their first match against Yugoslavia is off, Ireland have invoked the FIFA five-day ruling - much to manager John Aldridge's annoyance - because they play again next Wednesday.

United hope Simon Marsh's hip injury will clear up in time.

Jamie Cook is another pushing for a recall after starring in the reserves.

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