Malachi Obrey

Oxford United are listed by Betfair as 20/1 outsiders to win League One, 6/1 for promotion, 5/2 for a top-six finish and 10/1 for a top-two finish. They are also priced at 10/3 for relegation after a turbulent summer involving a managerial change from Matt Bloomfield to Aaron Ramsey and a transfer embargo. Oxford's squad is considered strong in the first XI but short of depth, particularly in attack, with Mark Harris priced at 30/1 to become the league's top scorer. Despite MK Dons being backed to challenge for a second successive promotion, Betfair makes Oxford slight favourites for the opening-day match.

Oxford United lost 2-0 to League One rivals Leyton Orient in the first round of the Carabao Cup, making it a disappointing competitive debut for manager Aaron Ramsey. Siriki Dembele was Oxford’s standout performer, while Jack Currie, Jamie McDonnell, Cameron Brannagan, Tyler Goodrham and Mark Harris received middling assessments. Oxford’s defence was exposed by Orient’s movement late in the match, with goalkeeper Jamie Cumming also criticized for his positioning on both goals. Several substitutes failed to change the game, while Brian De Keersmaecker and Stan Mills remained unavailable.