Chey Dunkley is aiming to make contributions for Oxford United at both ends of the pitch after setting up their equaliser at Plymouth Argyle on Sunday.

The centre back has made only three appearances for the U’s, but his ability in the air has stood out.

It has already paid dividends, with Dunkley rising to head Callum O’Dowda’s free-kick down for John Campbell to score as United won 2-1 in Devon.

If selected, the 22-year-old is hoping to open his account for United against Cheltenham tomorrow.

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Dunkley said: “I’m happy I helped with the assist, but I’d like to get goals myself, it’s been a part of my game.

“If you look at my time at previous clubs I’ve got a few goals, so it’s always nice to get assists but I’d like to bring goals to the table, as well as keeping them out.”

It would be very welcome for United, who have not seen a defender score for 11 months – since Tom Newey netted against AFC Wimbledon.

That came via a header from a corner, which is the method most of Dunkley’s goals have come by.

He said: “They were mainly headers. I don’t think you’ll see me doing any Wayne Rooney strikes from far out.”

Tomorrow’s game will officially be the first for Dunkley as a United player, after spending the last six weeks on a loan deal from Kidderminster Harriers.

It took until last weekend to make his first start for the club and despite his role in the equaliser at Plymouth, there are no guarantees he will face Cheltenham.

Dunkley expects it could take time to establish himself, but being a substitute has been an unfamiliar experience.

He said: “At my previous teams I’ve played a lot of football, so it is new for me just to bide my time and get into the side.

“I don’t want to say I’m rusty, but when you don’t play games it’s hard to get up to match fitness straight away.

“With more games and experience I will get better at dealing with different situations.”

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