DANNY Hylton says Oxford United’s promotion ambitions mean they need to make the most of an opportunity against rock bottom Dagenham & Redbridge this afternoon.

Dramatically different starts mean 24 points separate the sides after only 17 games in Sky Bet League Two.

United head into the game having won on nine of their last 12 outings, while the Daggers have collected four points from their last ten league fixtures and have yet to win at home this season.

While Hylton is well aware United slipped up at home to Barnet in similarly favourable conditions last month, the forward is urging the U’s to ensure there is no upset today.

He said: “If we want to go up this year then no disrespect to Dagenham but they are bottom of the league and we have to go there and beat them.

“I think you do need that arrogance to go there, play well and almost brush them aside and get on with the next job.

“It’s not going to be easy, they’re bottom and we’re near the top so they will add an extra ten per cent to their game.

“We will have to make sure we’re on it, but if we’re going to do anything this year we’re going to have to go there and win.”

Hylton was in the United side which won 2-0 away to the Daggers in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy only ten days ago.

But with both sides making plenty of changes on the night, the 26-year-old does not think the result will give the visitors much of a psychological edge.

He said: “I think they will be more up for it.

“They will have a few players back and had a good win the other night (4-2 at Morecambe in the FA Cup), so I’d expect it to be a completely different game.”

Hylton has been a regular starter since joining the U’s in June 2014, but the competition for places up front is fierce.

Patrick Hoban and Ryan Taylor have both found the net regularly in recent weeks, while top scorer Kemar Roofe is in double figures already.

United’s No 10 has his fingers crossed he is in the XI today, but does not envy head coach Michael Appleton’s position.

He said: “The gaffer’s got a tough job, but it’s a good one for him to have.

“I hope I get the nod and play, but if you ask Paddy, Tays, Roofey, AJ (George) they would all say the same. We’ll see.”

  • FANS buying tickets for Oxford United's next two home league games can make big savings.

The U’s host Newport County next Tuesday and Carlisle United on December 12, with adult supporters attending both matches able to save £10 when sitting in the Oxford Mail Stand.

More information is available from the club's ticket office on 01865 337533.