Robinson expecting response from Oxford United against Cobblers

Jon Brady is not the only manager expecting a big response from his team when Northampton host Oxford United this evening.

While the Cobblers succumbed to defeat to Crewe Alexandra on Saturday, Oxford's play-off hopes were suffering a setback as they lost 2-0 at home to Blackpool.

The U's dropped to 11th in League One but remain only three points adrift of the top six and manager Karl Robinson expects a much-improved showing at the PTS this evening.

“Saturday was a setback and we are always honest and upfront when that happens” he said. “Players understand that I will always be those things but also protective towards them. It doesn't hide the fact that we will come in, put in the hard work and do our best to put things right.

“We talk about the set-pieces that cost us on Saturday and certain aspects that we have to be better at going forward. But we also talk about the recovery, the preparation and tactics required and we get ready for another game

“That defeat happened at a good time. There are eleven games to go and we are still in a positive place. The sun is shining, we trained well and we’ll be ready.”

Forwards James Henry and Elliot Lee could be available for Friday's game at home to Lincoln City while right-back Sam Long is also on his way back from injury, but all three will miss the trip to Northampton.