JUSTIN Merritt expects Oxford City to finish their Vanarama National League South campaign in positive fashion.

City travel to play-off hopefuls Dartford tomorrow without a win in six league games – a run which has seen them tumble into the bottom half.

General manager Merritt has offered opportunities to younger players in recent weeks, but believes any side he puts out should be capable of winning.

He said: “It doesn’t matter who you are, whether you’re an experienced pro or one of the younger ones, you want to play well for yourself and prove your ability.

“It’s a matter of pride.

“We’re trying to keep everyone motivated, but it’s not easy when you’re not fighting for anything.

“We want the players to be professional and show the ability we know they’ve got.”

City beat Uhlsport Hellenic League Premier Division champions Kidlington 2-1 on Tuesday to reach the Oxfordshire Senior Cup final.

And Merritt believes it could be the boost to help his side finish the season strongly.

Merritt added: “It gives us something to look forward to at the end of the season.

“We want to win as many games as we can and we’re asking them to finish the season strongly and give the fans something to smile about.”

Jose Lapoujade (hamstring) and Lee Henderson (hip) are doubts.

Tyriq Hunte returns to the squad after being cup-tied on Tuesday, but David King is suspended, while Darren Pond (ankle), Marlon Jackson (calf), Kaylem Patterson (groin) and Ander Del Alamo (ankle) are all injured.

TOMORROW’S SQUAD

Oxford City (v Dartford, away): from Walker, Bevans, Santiago, Henderson, Arzamendi, Lapoujade, Fleet, Lafuente, Bubb, Pifarré, Isaac, Whichelow, Benjamin, Peake-Pijnen, Awadh, Hunte.