Chatkins

Ian Atkins addressed United fans and answered questions put to him by those assembled at the Kassam Stadium, as well as those listening to the session broadcast live over Radio Oxford and the internet. After a lengthy introduction which amply demonstrated Atkins' skills as a self-publicist there followed some interesting questions and equally, if not more, interesting answers. The evening, which went on for about half an hour after the radio broadcast had to conclude, is written up more fully here.

Mansfield preview

Oxford welcome Mansfield to the Kassam Stadium on Saturday hoping to avenge their first round FA Cup defeat just a few weeks ago. The good news for United is that Andy Scott, Phil Gray and Manny Omoyinmi are all in the frame for selection following injuries that have kept them out for varying lengths of time. United have also been boosted by the news that both Joey Beauchamp and Paul Tait have resumed training, but neither will be fit to play this weekend. The bad news is that both Dean Whitehead and Phil Bolland are suspended. Whitehead's midfield position will probably be taken by Rob Quinn, whilst Bolland is almost certainly to be replaced by new signing Andy Crosby, who will probably also be made captain. United's other new signing, loanee Dave Morley, may come in for Scott Guyett or may start on the bench.

Mansfield's main threat will obviously come from Chris Greenacre, who scored the goal which knocked the Us out of the Cup (with a bit of help from Paul Moody). They will also have Les Robinson playing for them, who will be looking for an opportunity to visit the curse of the old boys upon United. Rage Online, fresh with optimism from the refreshingly honest Q&A session with Ian Atkins, predicts a 2-0 victory for Robbo's boys.

One snippet: Youth team forward Jorden Holder, who has featured on a couple of occasions for the first team, has joined Kelvin McIntosh on loan at Oxford City for the next month. The duo will be available to play for the Us reserves and during the week will continue to train with United, but both are in City's squad for their home game against Carshalton this Saturday.