OXFORD United will find out today whether Rob Atkinson will be available to face Northampton Town.
The centre back will have a fitness test ahead of tonight’s Sky Bet League One clash after injuring his hip at Blackpool on Saturday.
Atkinson sustained the knock in a challenge with home striker Gary Madine early in the second half and briefly carried on, before being replaced by John Mousinho.
The injury will be immensely frustrating for the 22-year-old, who returned from a groin problem less than a month ago.
John Mousinho: I'm in no rush to have knee surgery
There was better news elsewhere, as striker Sam Winnall came through training yesterday and could make the squad for Saturday’s visit to Bristol Rovers.
It would leave only Cameron Brannagan unavailable to boss Karl Robinson over the festive period.
“We’ll wait and see what materialises with him (Atkinson),” the U's head coach said.
“Sam Winnall’s trained today and he’s now put himself up for selection on Saturday. That’s a big plus for us.
“Cameron Brannagan’s been out training again.
“It’s important that we have people available going into Christmas.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here