MIichael Appleton has called for Oxford United supporters to show patience during today’s clash with Cheltenham Town.

The U’s were booed off by some fans during their previous home game, when the side were second best in a 2-0 defeat to Shrewsbury Town.

Appleton’s men responded two days later to win 2-1 at Plymouth Argyle, but after facing two high-flying outfits the head coach expects a different test against Cheltenham.

They have yet to win in six outings under manager Paul Buckle and scouting reports suggest they will set out to be stubborn today.

The U’s boss said: “From looking at the video they get a lot of people behind the ball, so they’re trying to frustrate sides at the minute.

“We’ll have to be really patient, as will the fans with us because we’re going to come up against a side that will put everyone behind the ball and try to hit us on the counter attack.

“We’ll have to find a way of breaking them down, whether it’s over them, through them or round them.”

With three of United’s next four games coming at home, there is a chance to build some momentum in the new year, if they can find some form at the Kassam Stadium But Appleton knows creating a good atmosphere is a two-way street.

He said: “It’s OK me saying get behind the players, do this and do that, but the players have equally got to inspire the fans.

“As long as they can see the players are working hard and trying to do the right things that’s the most important thing.

“We lost on Boxing Day to a decent team and we just had too many players off their game.

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“But that’s the only defeat we’ve had in the last seven games, so it’s important we continue on the path we’ve been going down on the last couple of months.

“If the fans can stay with us, be patient and keep encouraging the players, hopefully that will be enough on the day.”

The sides have already faced each other twice this season.

Cheltenham won 2-0 at home in a Johnstone’s Paint Trophy tie in September, while the league game at Whaddon Road ended 1-1 in Buckle’s first game in charge.

United were left rueing an outstanding performance by Town goalkeeper Trevor Carson and Appleton is hoping lightning does not strike twice today.

He said: “He had a very good game on the day, hopefully he forgets his gloves and we can pick up the points.

“They’ve been a bit frustrating to us this season, hopefully this is the game where we get the edge and pick up the three points.”

Brian Howard, released last week by Oxford United, has joined Vanarama Conference side Eastleigh.

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