Midfielder Michael Collins says head coach Michael Appleton’s calm persona will help banish Oxford United’s relegation fears.

Saturday’s 2-0 loss at Shrewsbury Town keeps United only six points above the relegation zone with eight games remaining.

The U’s, who entertain fellow strugglers Carlisle United in a crunch game this Saturday, have a fight on their hands to stay in Sky Bet League Two, while Appleton has faced criticism for his demeanour on the touchline during troubling times on the pitch.

However, Collins is backing the head coach to lift the club to safety.

“Sometimes you see managers throwing their arms up on the touchline and it’s for show, it’s for the fans,” he said.

Latest United news:

“I think the gaffer knows what he is doing, he’s cool, calm and calculated.

“He certainly gets his point across without having to shout and bawl, but believe me when he loses his temper we know about it.

“Even though he comes across cool as ice, inside there is a fire burning.

“We know that as a group, and we can’t step out of line.”