DEREK Fazackerley believes Oxford United will have a good idea of where they fit into Sky Bet League One by next weekend.

A solid start to life in the third tier means Michael Appleton’s men sit just inside the top half of the table after eight games.

The most recent was a goalless draw at MK Dons, who were playing in the Championship last season.

United’s fixture programme also sees them face the other two sides relegated from the second tier in May on successive Saturdays, starting with Charlton Athletic tomorrow.

A tricky midweek visit to Southend United is also on the agenda and Fazackerley reckons the U’s will be able to draw some conclusions about their chances this season after next weekend’s game at Bolton Wanderers.

The assistant head coach said: “After this run of games I think we’ll have a good indication of where we’re going to be and what we need to do.

“MK Dons, Charlton and Bolton all came down from the Championship last season and all have designs on getting promoted this season.

“Ultimately, that’s where we want to end up as well, so it’s a good test for us.

“We got a good, solid point at MK Dons last week and let’s see where it takes us going into the Charlton game, a tough trip to Southend and then Bolton.”

United head into tomorrow’s clash above the Addicks, but Fazackerley does not think their opponents will be in the bottom half for long.

He said: “You’d anticipate it might be a slightly slow start, but I’m sure they will be one of the teams which gain momentum over the season and challenge for promotion.”