Portsmouth's potential League One play-off opponents Oxford begin coronavirus testing

Pompey’s potential League One play-off opponents Oxford United have started coronavirus testing.
Pompey's Ronan Curtis in action against Oxford earlier this season. Picture: Joe PeplerPompey's Ronan Curtis in action against Oxford earlier this season. Picture: Joe Pepler
Pompey's Ronan Curtis in action against Oxford earlier this season. Picture: Joe Pepler

Manager Karl Robinson has confirmed players and staff have been to the U’s training ground today as they prepare to return to training next week.

Oxford could well lie in wait for Pompey this season, with the Us set to be the opposition if the 2019-20 campaign is curtailed and decided by unweighted points-per-game formula.

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At present, it’s looking likely clubs will vote for that option during Tuesday's key meeting. Rotherham chairman Tony Stewart claimed 15 clubs will be in favour of bringing a premature end to the season.

If that is the case then promotion and relegation will still apply.

Therefore, the Blues would face Oxford in the semi-finals of a traditional four-team play-off. The winners will then face either Wycombe or Fleetwood at a neutral venue for the right to join Coventry and Rotherham in the Championship.

Robinson told his club’s website: ‘It was a simple enough process but it was very well planned and organised and we made sure everyone knew the rules before they came in, and what we expect of them as we go to the next phase, hopefully of training in small groups again.’

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The 21-year-old has had his loan spell cut short and returned to West Ham. He scored three goals in 12 games following his January arrival.

Holland picked up a hamstring injury in March and, although he could’ve been fit enough to return, it’s now been decided he shouldn’t be risked as and when the campaign restarts.

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