KARL Robinson says his two newest signings would’ve been difficult to bring in on permanent deals but is excited to see what they can do in the remainder of the season.

Ateef Konate joined from Nottingham Forest on loan yesterday, with Hull City striker Tyler Smith’s move announced this afternoon.

The two players will be expected to add quality to what has been a struggling final third for Oxford United this season.

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“They’ve got energy, they’re aggressive – these are players who have been playing and competing,” said Robinson.

“Ateef’s been playing Under-21s football and actually scored on Friday night, and Tyler’s been playing games as well.

“It’s not like we’ve got to get them up and running, they’re almost at full speed which is important to us.

“The fact that they’re loans gives us clarity in the summer and a cleaner wage bill for the next transfer window.

“We did try and bid for one or two players, we put a substantial amount of money on the table for one or two but they’re not for sale.

“We know over a million pounds has been turned down for Ateef so I don’t think that one’s quite in our reach just yet.

“Tyler we know isn’t for sale just at this moment in time, that’s one thing Hull were incredibly adamant on.”