The new-look Oxford Cheetahs, who include former No 1 Todd Wiltshire and Freddie Eriksson, have a great chance to chalk up another victory when they visit injury-hit Eastbourne in an Elite League clash at Arlington Stadium tonight (7.30pm), writes JOHN GAISFORD.

All eyes will be on the return of former skipper Wiltshire and Eriksson, who played a big part in the Silver Machine's late revival last season.

A big plus for the Oxford side sees Eric Andersson dropping down to the reserve berth where he is expected to come into his own.

Aussie Davey Watt returns to his old club and should boost Cheetahs' challenge.

The Eagles have been dealt a severe blow with the loss of their two top riders Nicki Pedersen and Adam Shields and this comes on the top of a broken shoulder for Brent Werner.

Shields was badly injured in a crash in Poland on Monday, suffering serious pelvic and leg injuries, which have ruled him out for the season.

Pedersen will go into hospital for an operation following this weekend's Slovenian Grand Prix in Krsko.

Oxford skipper David Howe will step in for Pedersen at Wolverhampton on Monday.

The Eagles bring in top Swede Peter Karlsson for Pedersen and use rider-replacement for Shields, while Andrew Appleton continues in place of Werner.

Eastbourne: Norris, Moore, Barker, Rider-replacement, Karlsson, Appleton, Bridger.

Oxford: Wiltshire, Eriksson, Watt, Skornicki, Howe, Andersson, Tomicek.