MICHAEL Appleton says if clubs are weighing up offers for Oxford United’s star players they need to come in sooner rather than later.

Speculation is mounting over Leeds United’s link with Kemar Roofe, while there is interest in Callum O’Dowda following his senior debut for Republic of Ireland.

The U’s do not want to lose anyone, but are realistic last season’s exploits will have caught the eye.

Appleton said: “If we can hang on to them then fantastic, but we’re also realistic.

“If someone comes in with a ridiculous offer then at the end of the day we’re no different to any club.

“There’s always bigger and better clubs out there, unless you’re in the top four.”

While there has only been informal contact made so far, the U’s head coach admits it is unlikely United will get through the summer without a bid.

But he is clear negotiations will only take place if United have time to line up a replacement.

It means there will come a point when approaches will not be considered.

He said: “We realise that, it’s just being mindful if that situation ever happened you have options to fall back on.

“What we don’t want to do is put ourselves in a position where we allow something to happen really late.

“If something is going to happen we want it to happen as early as possible.

“So there might be a situation further down the road where we come to a crossroads where it is a case of ‘whoever we’ve got in the building stays’.”