Bristol City v Oxford United injury news as five ruled out and four doubts

Bristol City are likely to be without Alex Scott and Andi Weimann for their Carabao Cup tie with Oxford United.

Scott wasn’t included in the Robins match-day squad for their season opener with Preston because of a knock. The 19-year-old has come under a lot of transfer speculation recently but Nigel Pearson played down fears that his absence could be down to a departure being imminent.

Club captain Weimann played in Scott’s position but only lasted 20 minutes. The 32-year-old had an injury that flared up and he was replaced by Joe Williams. He is likely to be rested in the hope that he will instead be available for the trip to Millwall, rather than their match with Oxford.

Kal Naismith has returned to training this week and could push to be involved against Oxford. Ross McCrorie has an infection and Pearson has been wise to not place a timeframe on his return.

As for long-term absentees, Ayman Benarous and Rob Atkinson are still out. Benarous is a ahead of Atkinson in his recovery but is likely to need a string of appearances for the Under-21’s before being fit enough for the first-team.

Mark Sykes - who was one of the many to make the move from the Kassam Stadium to Ashton Gate could be given a start on Wednesday. January signing Harry Cornick started ahead of him to cope with Preston’s physical presence but now the Ireland star will be eyeing a starting opportunity to pick up from his good pre-season form.

Oxford United meanwhile suffered an opening day defeat to Cambridge United. Former Cardiff City winger Josh Murphy wasn’t in the match-day squad, which could suggest he’s not in contention for the match at Ashton Gate.

James Henry is dealing with what is being described as a ‘short-term’ issue and may be available.

Former Bristol City striker Sam Baldock meanwhile was not in Oxford’s squad, and despite being under contract does not have squad number for the season at the U’s.