OXFORD United have received a welcome boost with the sight of Chey Dunkley and Wes Thomas boarding the team bus this morning.

The pair are due to train with the squad at Wigan Athletic this afternoon to test their fitness ahead of tomorrow night's game at Fleetwood Town.

Dunkley is the bigger surprise, having picked up a hamstring strain on the opening day of the season.

It was hoped the centre back would return to the frame by this weekend, but his progess has been quicker than expected.

U's assistant head coach Chris Allen said: "Chey Dunkley is travelling.

"He will be training with us and we’ll see how he gets on to see if he’s available for selection on Wednesday."

Thomas was forced off with a tight groin in last Tuesday's EFL Cup win at Birmingham City.

Herald Series:

  • Wes Thomas was substituted with a tight groin against Birmingham City last week

The striker was tested on Saturday and deemed not to be ready for Sunday's game at Bristol Rovers.

But having sat out the 2-1 defeat, the 29-year-old could now return to action at Highbury as United seek their first Sky Bet League One victory of the campaign.