Michael Appleton admits Tyrone Barnett’s upturn in form at the end of his Oxford United loan spell will make it tough to re-sign the striker in the new year.

The 29-year-old scored just twice in his first 11 appearances for the U’s, but has caught fire in the last two games.

He struck twice in five minutes in Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Tranmere Rovers in the FA Cup to follow his equaliser at Cheltenham Town in the previous game.

Appleton is interested in bringing back Barnett, who returns to Peterborough United after Saturday’s home clash with Bury, but is concerned by the number of other clubs who will be in the picture.

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He said: “My worry is someone is really going to reap the benefits of Tyrone Barnett.

“We’re not going to give up on it that easily and we will see what happens.

“I’m sure there will be plenty of people eyeing up the situation at the minute looking to do something.

“But it will be down to whether we can or can’t do it and whether Tyrone feels it’s right for him.

“Whatever the decision is of the club and Tyrone, we will respect that.”

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