CHRIS Wilder will be keeping a close eye on Oxford United’s young players following their taste of first-team action.

Matt Bevans, Dave Lynn and Sam Long all featured in FA Cup wins at Gateshead and Wrexham.

They performed well, but are likely to have opportunities limited against Dagenham tomorrow as senior players return from injury.

Wilder, the United manager, urged them to continue doing the right things, even if they are not involved for a while.

He said: “If they go back into the development squad they’ve got to keep working hard and keep impressing in everything they do.

“Now is the test – if they do go back, what is their attitude and mentality like?

“It should give them confidence and a taste to want more, that’s what you look for.”