MICHAEL Appleton believes it is now unlikely Oxford United will have any new signings on board in time before the squad flies to Spain tomorrow.

The head coach was hopeful on Friday of completing a move for at least one of two targets in time for the departure.

But it now looks a long shot, although additions could still arrive at their training camp near Malaga during the week.

He said: “I don’t think we’re going to have anyone on the plane with us tomorrow, but I’m hopeful during the week we’ll have one or two players who meet up with us.”

There is also doubt over whether Callum O’Dowda will be part of the squad which flies out after the winger missed United’s 1-1 draw at Solihull Moors.

Appleton said: “He’s ill, apparently. I’ve not seen him.

“The doctor will see him first thing tomorrow and I’m sure he’ll be fine.

“If he gets the all-clear from the doctor we’ll get him on the plane and get a good week with him.

“If he has to miss the first couple of days because he’s a bit under the weather then that’s not a problem, we’re there for a week.”

There has been speculation over O’Dowda leaving the club this summer, but Appleton reiterated United – who lost Kemar Roofe to Leeds United for £3m on Thursday – did not want to sell the Republic of Ireland international.

He said: “Even as recently as yesterday I spoke to him about reading a team around him.

“From my point of view it’s very clear – we don’t want to sell Callum.

“We thought he had a good season last year, he came to the fore and got better the longer the season went on.

“It culminated in picking up an international appearance, which was great for everybody.

“We’re looking forward to him being a big part of our League One push this year.”