While the sun beats down on Rage Online reporters in the South of France (trying to get to grips with the eccentricities of French keyboards) things have been fairly sunny for United too, although with occasional cloudy intervals. Earlier in the week an Oxford side composed mainly of youngsters, but with Chrises Tardif and Willmott and Marvin Robinson thrown into the mix, drew 0-0 with Oxford City at Court Place Farm. Willmott was taking part in his first game since his injury midway through last season, and United will be pleased that he came through without mishap. City looked quite impressive, featuring ex-OUFC lads Gareth Tucker and Andrew Gunn in their line-up. United had a nippy-looking youngster up front alongside Marvin, triallist Lloyd O'Neill. Alex Fisher came on in the second half and also did well. Robinson looked as though he would never hit a barn door with a banjo. The attendance was 702.

Last night, United drew 1-1 with a full-strength Wycombe Wanderers side. It was a fairly even game, with both goalkeepers making good saves to deny the opposition. Rob Duffy met a cross from Eddie Anaclet, but Scott Shearer saved well, while Billy Turley kept out John Sutton. Alex Jeannin again had a good game, as did Michael Standing. Wycombe took the lead in the 48th minute, after Sergio Torres ended a surging run by rounding Turley and slotting home, after Arthur Gnohere had conceded possession. Barry Quinn, named as team captain by Jim Smith earlier in the week, headed home a Jeannin cross with quarter of an hour remaining to avoid defeat.

Also this week, United announced the departure of Andy Burgess, who made a surprise return to his former club, Rushden & Diamonds. United had a sell-on clause as part of the deal, but received no fee; presumably they were happy enough to unload Burgess from the wage bill. It must surely now only be a matter of time before they announce the signing of Standing, who has been very impressive in every pre-season friendly in which he has played.

On Monday, United face Birmingham's reserves in their final pre-season game, before the real action starts next Saturday, with the visit of Forest Green Rovers. Rage Online will almost certainly be last with all the news, unless we can kick assorted teenagers off of MySpace in the local internet cafe. It appears an unlikely prospect.