ALEX MacDonald says Oxford United do not see the visit to Sky Bet League One leaders Scunthorpe United as a “free hit” this afternoon.

Successive victories against Coventry City and Gillingham have relieved the pressure which had been building in a four-game winless run and moved Michael Appleton’s side back into mid-table.

Many supporters would see anything gained from a Scunthorpe side six points clear and without a home defeat for almost a year as a bonus.

But MacDonald dismissed the suggestion, as United look for a third win in eight days.

He said: “The pressure’s not off for us.

“We know what we’re capable of and I think we’ve shown that over the last two games.

“People will see it as a free hit against the top of the league.

“But we’re not here to make the numbers up, we’re here to compete – and that’s what we’re going to do.”

MacDonald has struggled to nail down a consistent place in United’s starting XI since the opening month of the season.

But the winger’s return a week ago has contributed to the side’s mini revival.

The U’s work rate has been impressive in the back-to-back successes, something for which MacDonald is renowned.

And the 26-year-old is all set to give everything for the cause again.

He said: “It takes a lot out of you, but it’s my job and if I can’t do three games in a week I’d be worried.

“The feeling you get when you’ve won a game is far better than a few aches and pains the next day.

“We’ve really dug deep and put in a shift (in the last two games).

“It comes not from ability, but what’s between the ears.

“Our mentality seems to have been different going into the games – we’ve started really well and it’s spurred us on.

“I’m standing here too often saying it’s frustrating being out of the team, but I’m back in at the minute and helping the lads get the results we needed.

“I think the manager knows me and what he’s going to get from me every time I play.

“I’ll try and do that and chip in with goals and assists to make sure we come out with positive results.”