Duo back to boost U's

Oxford have been boosted in their quest for play-off place by the return to full fitness of Damien Batt and Jon-Paul Pittman.

Both players missed the 1-1 draw at Plymouth last time out with minor injuries but return to contention for Southend's visit, where Oxford need a win to stay in the race for a top-seven finish. Doubts remain over striker James Constable, whose thigh strain will be assessed by the club before kick-off, and goalkeeper Ryan Clarke (rib). Wayne Brown is standing by to deputise for Clarke once again should he not make it. Peter Leven is fit and available after a knee problem, but Tom Craddock (knee) and Alfie Potter (broken ankle) will not feature for the U's for the remainder of the campaign.