Oxford United travel to face Leicester City this Saturday in a League One fixture, seeking an immediate response after suffering their first defeat of the season. The match at the King Power Stadium kicks off at 3:00pm on 5 September, with the U's currently 15th in the table with four points from three games. This information was reported by the club's official website, www.oufc.co.uk.
A 3-1 loss away to Huddersfield Town on Tuesday night ended Oxford's unbeaten start. Gatlin O'Donkor scored the consolation goal for Des Buckingham's side. The defeat leaves Oxford six points behind early leaders Huddersfield in the title race, having scored five goals and conceded six so far this term. Key personnel changes have occurred since that match, with Stan Mills and Brian De Keersmaecker departing for Preston North End and Bristol City respectively.
Who is available for Oxford United?
Goalkeeper Jamie Cumming is considered a doubt for the trip to the East Midlands. Forward Aidomo Emakhu will definitely miss the game due to injury. These absences could open the door for new loan signings to feature. Luka Lynch, who joined from Aston Villa, may make his first appearance for the club. Fellow loanee Kai Andrews, signed from Coventry City, will be pushing for a starting role after making his debut from the bench against Huddersfield.
One positive milestone from Tuesday was Ciaron Brown's 200th appearance for Oxford United. The Northern Ireland international centre-half joined the club in 2021. "Since joining United in 2021, the centre-half has established himself as an outstanding and hugely influential player, becoming a key figure at the heart of the U’s defence," Brown said of his own journey. The squad will also debut their new white Replica Away Kit for the first time this season at the King Power.
What is the recent history between these sides?
The last meeting provides encouragement for the visitors. Oxford United secured a 2-1 victory at the King Power Stadium, with goals from Sam Long and Mark Harris sealing the win. Replicating that result would be a significant boost. You can view the full upcoming schedule, including this key fixture, on our dedicated fixtures page.
What is the situation at Leicester City?
Leicester City, now managed by Russell Martin following his June appointment, are preparing for a promotion push after relegation from the Championship last season. "It has been a steady start to life at the club with the team earning five points from their opening four games and sitting tenth in the League One table," Martin noted. They are one place and one point above Oxford in 13th. The Foxes have significant injury concerns, with defender Ben Nelson set to miss most of the season with a serious knee injury. Forward Conor Chaplin is unlikely to feature after being forced off last weekend, and goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk was stretchered off in a 3-0 win over Plymouth and is out for the foreseeable future.
Deadline day signings Kamari Doyle, John Lundstram, and Emil Riis could all feature in the matchday squad. Jamaican international Bobby De Cordova-Reid provides a known threat in midfield and attack. Oxford's current defensive record shows six goals conceded, a figure they will need to improve upon against a side rebuilding under a new manager. Fans can track the team's progress throughout the season by checking the latest standings.
The match represents a major early-season test. Oxford United's next fixture is this away trip to Leicester City on 5 September 2026.
