Oxford United have announced their schedule of pre-season games for this summer. Unlike in previous seasons, when the Us have entertained the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur, there is little to excite the palate of any non-Oxford supporters in the city. Although with four homes games to choose from it is clear that the emphasis is on match fitness and competitiveness, rather than income generation (but with some of that too, of course).

The programme kicks off with two away games against Conference South teams, with United visiting Dorchester Town[@opponent]Dorchester Town[/@opponent] on 21 July, in just under two months time. Oxford beat Dorchester 9-1 in the FA Cup first round in 1995. Three days later, the Us travel to Eastleigh, where they won 2-1 in last year's pre-season fixtures. The first home game sees the visit of third division AFC Bournemouth[@opponent]afc bournemouth[/@opponent], on Friday 27 July, followed three days later by Luton Town[@opponent]luton town[/@opponent], who were relegated from the second division at the end of this season.

The annual visit to Oxford City[@opponent]oxford city[/@opponent] takes place on 1 August, before the programme is wrapped up by two more home matches. On Friday 3 August neighbours Wycombe Wanderers[@opponent]wycombe wanderers[/@opponent], of the fourth division, pop in to say hello. The final scheduled game is on Tuesday 7 August, against Birmingham City[@opponent]birmingham city[/@opponent], newly promoted to the first division, and sure to be an attraction to the small number of Birmingham supporters in the city. It is always possible that further dates may be added, but with four games already at Minchery Farm, there are unlikely to be any more home matches.

Meanwhile, United's squad for next season is slowly but surely starting to take shape. Following the news that Yemi Odubade signed a new two-year deal, two more players have also extended their time at Grenoble Road. A couple of days ago Chris Willmott, who missed the whole second half of the season with a knee injury, signed a new two-year deal, and just this morning Barry Quinn, who was the Players' Player of the Season, signed on for another season. There are still contract offers outstanding with Luke Foster and Michael Corcoran, while apparently offers have been made to a number of other players.

Oxford's near miss last season, finishing second and losing in the play-off semi finals, has made them favourites with the bookies to win next season's title. Blue Square, who are the Conference's new sponsor for next season, make United 4/1 favourites for the title (and 9/4 to go up any old how), ahead of Stevenage Borough, who are quoted at 6/1. Borough were early title favourites last season. Losing play-off finalists Exeter City are just behind Torquay United in the odds, fourth favourites at 8/1. Rage Online does not condone betting in any way, shape, or form, having never won a penny in our sad lives.