General manager Justin Merritt admitted that a Vanarama Conference North play-off place looks unrealistic for Oxford City after their 1-1 home draw with Harrogate Town.

“If we’re analysing things, we’ve taken one point out of our last nine at home, which at this stage of the season is not enough,” said Merritt.

“I think we’ve had a great opportunity today and I think realistically we needed to win, but I’ve said before that we’re in the position we’re in because of the last 40 games, not just the last few.”

Merritt revealed he has already begun planning for the next campaign.

He said: “That process has been going on for a number of weeks and a lot of work has been done at this time of year.

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“We’re certainly building a very strong squad and whatever happens this season we look at it as a springboard for next year.

“It’s important that the players have got a year’s experience, because we’ve got a lot of young guys in the team who’ve never even played before at this level.

“All of that stands them in good stead. Plus, we’ve got a number of quality players that we’d like to bring in.”