OXFORD United’s first public pre-season friendly allowed us an insight into where Liam Manning’s side is at this summer.

Although the U’s played out a goalless draw at Vanarama National League side Eastleigh, there was more than enough to take away from the match.

Here are four things we picked up on from the game in Hampshire.

Clinical edge missing

United were fairly dominant in the first half, but dropped off the pace in the second period.

In the opening 45 minutes, the U’s had arguably the two biggest chances of the game.

They were similar in the sense that both Mark Harris and Tyler Goodrham found themselves in on goal, however on both occasions, they were thwarted by home goalkeeper Joe McDonnell.

READ ALSO: Liam Manning says Oxford United ‘very close’ to seventh summer signing

United lacked a ruthlessness in front of goal last season, and while this is just one pre-season fixture, it’s a trend Manning will want to nip in the bud.

Of course, we’re also at a stage where pre-season is gearing up bit by bit, so confidence in front of goal will surely come.

It does however open up the question of bringing in another centre forward, with Manning saying last week that the club is still in the market for a striker.

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Left back required

Another area where the U’s are a little short is at left back.

Steve Seddon’s loan move to Burton Albion leaves Ciaron Brown as the sole senior player in that position.

Sam Long, Fin Stevens and Jordan Thorniley can all play there if required, however the heart in mouth moment when Brown stayed down after a knock during the Eastleigh game must push the need for an out and out left back to be brought in.

Brown’s withdrawal was precautionary, but the prospect of being without him is one United do not want to face.

Thorniley’s passing range

Strictly this is something we already knew about, however the former Blackpool centre back showed glimpses of his passing range against Eastleigh.

Particularly in the first half, Thorniley was looking to get the ball forward with his trademark balls over the top or diagonals to the other side of the pitch.

With willing runners, Thorniley’s passing range could be a very useful asset for the U’s this season.

The kids are alright

Goodrham showed last season that he’s not just first team ready, but very much one of the standout players in this United side.

Players such as George Franklin and Aidan Elliott-Wheeler however are ones that U’s supporters won’t have seen too much of.

The duo were given just under 20 minutes against Eastleigh, with Franklin playing two positions at the Silverlake Stadium after coming on at right back, before switching to the left when Brown was substituted.

Elliott-Wheeler caught the eye with his bravery on the ball and desire to get up the pitch. A good pre-season will do both the world of good.

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About the author

To sign up to Liam’s latest Oxford United newsletter for free, click here: https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/newsletters/

Formerly the politics reporter for the Oxford Mail, Liam now covers all things Oxford United.

Liam attends the U’s home and away, as well as covering other big sports stories across the county.

His Oxford United newsletter is released every Saturday morning at 6am.