SQUAD depth could be the decisive factor when Oxford United and Portsmouth meet for the second time in four days.

That is the view of Pompey midfielder Bryn Morris, who was a surprise inclusion for Friday’s play-off semi-final first leg.

The 24-year-old started for the first time in 14 months as Kenny Jackett sprung a few surprises in his selection.

Oxford United ready to rock ‘n’ roll in play-off second leg with Portsmouth – Karl Robinson

Morris replaced skipper Tom Naylor, while top scorer John Marquis also had to make do with a place on the bench.

Ben Close did not even make the 20-man squad, while United included Rob Atkinson to fill their quota.

Karl Robinson also revealed Matty Taylor and Marcus Browne had been suffering from niggles, while Cameron Brannagan limped off with what was hoped to be just cramp.

With fitness levels set to be stretched by the quick turnaround after four months out, managers are able to make up to five substitutions.

And Morris reckons this is where Portsmouth have the edge.

He told The News: “It’s a squad game and we’ve got a lot of depth, especially with the extra subs.

“I can see that coming into play in the second leg.

“The lads who came on did really well and that just shows our depth.

“Like the gaffer says, we’ve got two teams.

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“We’ve got solid players in every position who complement each other and the competition is really good and it’s healthy.”

Robinson has some big decisions to make, especially with those who may struggle to play 90 minutes.

Given the potential for the tie to go into extra time, it will be a tricky decision with the likes of Browne and Taylor whether United want them on the pitch for the start or the end of the game.

There may also be a question mark over Ben Woodburn, who until Friday had not played competitively in nine months.

The Liverpool loanee looked unsurprisingly rusty and while Robinson is a big admirer of the 20-year-old, another start so soon could be pushing it.

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Mark Sykes would be in pole position to step up, having replaced Woodburn on Friday.

Robinson though has no concerns about being able to field a strong side, with his squad having grown used to dealing with setbacks this season.

He said: “We keep finding something within us to make us ultra-competitive.

“Do you know what that is? It’s desire.

“It doesn’t half make up sometimes for when your talent dwindles.

“If you’ve got an appetite to play it makes a big difference and my players have that in abundance.”