MICHAEL Appleton is relishing the chance to have a selection dilemma after Oxford United’s superb performance at Grimsby Town.

The U’s head coach had said in the build-up to the match that he was disappointed that not enough players had taken their opportunity when given a chance to shine this season.

But with striker James Roberts the obvious example after two goals on his first start for the club, Appleton is now aware he has some decisions to make ahead of Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two clash at York City.

United’s top scorer Danny Hylton missed the game through suspension and main striker Tyrone Barnett was dropped to the bench.

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Roberts and Brian Howard came into the side in attack, and both produced accomplished displays to guide United safely into the second round, where they will now play Tranmere Rovers at the Kassam Stadium next month.

Appleton is delighted that players previously on the fringe of the first team are giving him a headache as they push for regular starting roles.

“If someone gets an opportunity, you want them to take it and he certainly has done that,” the U’s boss said of Roberts (pictured).

“I’m sure he will be banging at my door to make sure he tries to stay in the team.

“It’s a good one for me because I don’t see it as a risk to play young players and my track record at other club shows that.

“But it’s always nice and gratifying when they do the job.

“If he gets the opportunity to play next week or the week after, we want him to continue doing it.”

He added: “A lot of players impressed me with their performance.

“They are the sort of decisions you want as a manager.”

Appleton knows the importance of the win as his side get back for the bread and butter of the league this weekend.

“I told the players before the game that there are fine margins in football,” he said.

“We won two on the bounce and then conceded a last-minute winner at Carlisle and missed a last-minute penalty against Wycombe.

“We could so easily have gone into the Grimsby game four matches unbeaten, but instead it was with two defeats.

“It was very important we got the victory there and can now head to York on Saturday full of confidence.”

ADULTS can watch United’s FA Youth Cup second-round tie against Swindon Town at the Kassam Stadium next Tuesday night for £5 (7.30pm), with under 18s and over 65s paying £3.

A trip to Manchester City awaits the winner.

UNITED’S development side drew 2-2 at Reading yesterday.

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