Dan Church

Defender Johnny Mullins has been recalled by his parent club Rotherham United. Oxford United have confirmed his loan stint at the Kassam Stadium has been cut-short due to the Millers suffering an injury crisis.

Centre-half Mullins, 27, made eight appearances for Oxford, in which he scored two goals against Wycombe Wanderers and Chesterfield. It should be no surprise that Mullins has been recalled to the New York Stadium, but maybe an element of shock that it did not happen sooner after his impressive run of form for the Yellows.

Mullins’ departure will mean either ex-Rotherham defender Michael Raynes, Harry Worley or Andy Whing will fill the centre-back role in Saturday’s visit of Northampton Town.

United manager Chris Wilder was saddened but understood the circumstance; “Johnny has done well for us but we understand the situation at Rotherham, increased by three new injuries and their decision to recall both of their loan players.

“These things happen in football and we move on. We are fortunate to have experienced players like Michael Raynes, Harry Worley and Andy Whing who can play in that position.

“We also have Michael Duberry getting closer to a return and Liam Davis and Damian Batt hopefully playing again soon to add to our options in the back four.”