WES Burns is in a hurry to make up for lost time by playing a prominent role during Oxford United’s busy festive period.

A combination of an ankle injury and ineligibility for the FA Cup have delayed the 20-year-old, who is finally in line for his debut tomorrow against Bury, a fortnight after signing on loan from Bristol City.

Fortunately for the versatile forward, opportunities to play will come quickly now, with the U’s facing five fixtures in just over two weeks.

He said: “It’s a bonus to come into such a busy schedule, so it means the games are coming thick and fast.

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“It means hopefully I’ll get a lot of minutes under my belt over the Christmas period.”

The Wales Under 21 international has already had a taste of how United want to play, having come on as a late substitute for City when the sides met at Ashton Gate in August.

He came on just before Danny Hylton made it 2-1 to send the visitors through in the Capital One Cup.

And the memory of that performance had a role in Burns wanting to come out on loan to Michael Appleton’s side.

He said: “Oxford came to Ashton Gate and I think were the better team.

“I have watched them a couple of times, they do try to play out from the back and play attractive football.

“Hopefully, I can kick on and help the team improve as well.”

Burns has been quick to make an impression on his new teammates.

Centre back Johnny Mullins has seen first-hand what he can offer, if selected tomorrow.

“He’s quick, sharp and skilful,” Mullins said.

“I think the first couple of days he was bedding in, but this week he’s hit the turbo button.

“He will be a player that will add to the quality we’ve already got.”

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