Tyrone Barnett’s chances of returning to Oxford United are remote during the January transfer window, according to head coach Michael Appleton.

But the U’s boss believes the gap will be filled by Patrick Hoban and Will Hoskins, who are both due to reach significant milestones this week as they return from injury.

Barnett’s size and strength offered the side a different dimension up front during his three-month spell, where he scored six goals in 12 starts.

The 29-year-old’s loan expired last month, which saw him return to Peterborough United.

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And despite Appleton retaining an interest in the striker, his parent club’s demands and the number of higher-ranked clubs in the running is likely to count United out.

The U’s head coach said: “From what I’m hearing Peterborough don’t want to do a loan, they want a permanent move.

“I think they’re asking for quite a few quid, so that makes it very difficult.

“If it gets to the back end of January and it’s a loan situation then we would certainly be in the running for it.

“But I’d imagine there would be a lot of other clubs who would be delighted with his services.”

While it leaves United short of a target man to lead the line, Appleton is not looking for an alternative in the window – because he believes there is a ready-made replacement in the form of Hoban.

The 23-year-old picked up an ankle injury in one of his first sessions after joining from Dundalk in November.

But the Irishman is pencilled in for a return to training this week.

Appleton said: “I don’t think he’s a million miles away from joining in.

“Obviously we would’ve liked to have him in the squad and have him come on and raising the crowd, but if we have to wait an extra two or three weeks then so be it, because he’s a talent and he’s going to be great for Oxford United.

“He’s not kicked a ball for us yet, but I just know he’s going to be good for us.”

Meanwhile, 28-year-old Hoskins, who has been out with a groin injury since September, is in line to make a playing return today for the development squad in a game at Barnet.

Appleton said: “We’re hoping he will get an hour out of the game.

“If he does it will be a massive bonus for everyone, because he’s got a lot of quality.”

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