Oxford United's players face a test of character at Burton Albion tomorrow, according to manager Jim Smith.

Losing in virtually the last kick of the game at Cambridge United on Thursday was a big blow to the U's, whose first away league defeat last year didn't arrive until November 18.

Smith, who looks certain to make changes, said it was a chance to see what the squad is made of.

"It's very important to bounce back," he said. "We showed that character most of the time last year and that's what we've got to do on Sunday.

"We were poor at Cambridge. We knew we were going to have to battle, to earn the right to play.

"We battled all right, but without playing. You've got to have the courage and the confidence to get it down and play. Your front men have also got to have better service, but they've also got to keep the ball to keep that momentum up that you need.

"But I think this defeat might be a blessing in disguise. We took a long time to lose one last season. Now we know what's required in this league.

Burton, though, play much more football than Cambridge, and that is one of the reasons Smith may be looking to change his centre backs.

He could bring back either Mickey Corcoran or Luke Foster for Arthur Gnohere, who has had two mistake-ridden games.

The U's boss admitted: "Arthur had a mix. Matty Day and Quinny (Barry Quinn) had great first halves whereas Arthur had moments when he won super headers and other times when he went diving in and gave free-kicks away."

Michael Standing is expected to be available again after missing the trip to the Abbey Stadium with a calf muscle strain, and Danny Rose is also in the reckoning.

"Michael's is just a slight strain. It's not heavy-duty," Smith said.

"Danny has just come into the club. He has played pre-season, in friendly games, and with the nearness of this game to Sunday's game, I think all the lads who didn't play will come into contention."