Oxford v York: Minstermen need to heed Rovers warning

York city will look to meet the challenge set by manager Russ Wilcox when they visit Oxford United today.
York City's manager Russ Wilcox (Picture: Tony Johnson).York City's manager Russ Wilcox (Picture: Tony Johnson).
York City's manager Russ Wilcox (Picture: Tony Johnson).

The Minstermen have eased the anxiety over their relegation fears with successive wins over Mansfield and Cheltenham, but with the gap to the bottom two still only five points with six games to play, Wilcox is not getting carried away.

He cited the example of Bristol Rovers last season, following the win over Cheltenham on Friday, as an example of a team that thought they were safe only to be sucked back into trouble and ultimately relegated.

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Wilcox could be without defender John McCombe today. Stephane Zubar, who replaced McCombe at half-time against Cheltenham, may start.

Wilcox also has a selection headache in goal with on-loan Peterborough man Bobby Olejnik back from suspension to apply pressure to Michael Ingham, who has deputised ably in Olejnik’s one-game absence.

Michael Coulson could be rotated after playing 90 minutes on Friday following an abdominal injury, but Emile Sinclair is a doubt.

Meanwhile, the club have issued a statement concerning midfielder Josh Carson, who was not involved on Friday.

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The statement reads: “York City Football Club can confirm that Josh Carson was involved in an incident last Saturday evening.

“As a result, Josh was admitted to hospital on Sunday morning with what has now been determined as severe concussion.

“The 21-year-old has since been discharged from hospital.

“The club will not be making any further comment as the matter is now subject to a police investigation.”

Last six games: Oxford United WDLLWW, York City LDLDWW.

Referee: J Adcock (Nottinghamshire).

Last time: Oxford United 0 York City 1; April 18, 2014; League Two.