KARL Robinson is still pushing for a free agent to come in as cover for Oxford United.

The head coach raised the possibility last month following a hamstring injury to Jamie Hanson which is likely to keep him out until December.

The need for reinforcements has increased this week with bad news about fellow central midfielder George Thorne.

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The Derby County loanee is due to have surgery today on a dislocated shoulder and will be sidelined for at least three months.

With United still fighting on four fronts, they could play as many as 21 matches before the transfer window opens in January.

Only free agents can join until then, but Robinson believes there are players who can fit the bill.

He said: “It is a conversation we have had and let’s see where we go.

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“There’s a lot of games to be played between now and Christmas and I think it’s important we do have a look at that.

“We do have one or two ideas of someone we can fill that role with.

“ I think the owner (Sumrith Thanakarnjanasuth) knows there’s a void to be filled.”