Oxford United have fallen short in their bid to sign a new striker in time for today’s clash with Torquay United.

In the aftermath of Tuesday’s 3-0 FA Cup replay defeat to Charlton Athletic, manager Chris Wilder felt more firepower was needed to freshen up the squad.

Despite strenuous efforts this week, nothing was tied up in time for this afternoon's game.

Mickey Lewis, United's assistant manager, said: “Chris has been working really hard on that.

“It’s sometimes a bit frustrating, there are so many factors that have to happen to bring a player in and it’s not as simple as it seems.

“Hopefully something will happen early next week.

“It was close, but it still needs a bit of a push.”

Meanwhile, Oxford United’s Sky Bet League Two game away to Southend United will be shown live on Sky Sports.

The fixture at Roots Hall, originally set for Tuesday, March 25, will now be played 24 hours earlier, kicking off at 7.45 on the Monday night.

As a consequence, United’s home game with Hartlepool has moved from Saturday, March 22, to Friday, March 21 (7.45).