Chris Wilder said an accidental clash which led to blood pouring from Sean Rigg’s head showed the intensity of Oxford United’s training sessions.

Defender Michael Raynes left a gash in the winger’s forehead on the eve of Oxford United’s win over Northampton Town.

The 25-year-old needed several stitches, but less than 24 hours later started the 2-0 victory, playing in a headband to protect the wound.

Wilder admitted to feeling ill when it happened, but said it demonstrated how seriously the players work during the week.

The U’s boss said: “It was a clash that sickened us a bit.

“I think that’s just the commitment of the two boys. They both went for a 50-50 in training and you’re thinking ‘oh no’.

“There was claret everywhere, but we stitched him up and he went again.

“I keep saying it’s a man’s game and you expect people to train as they play, and they both do that.

“You want it to be sensible and you don’t want to put anybody at risk, but they train at a good tempo.”