Oxford receive boost ahead of potential League One play-off meeting with Portsmouth

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Oxford have received a boost ahead of a potential League One play-off clash against Pompey.

The U's have confirmed that striker Matty Taylor's loan spell from Bristol City has been extended for the remainder of the 2019-20 season.

It's looking likely the campaign will be curtailed when clubs vote during an EFL meeting on Tuesday.

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If 51 per cents of third-tier sides choose to bring a premature end to the season then league positions will be decided by an unweighted points-per-game formula. Promotion, relegation and the play-offs will still apply.

That will mean Pompey face Oxford in the semi-finals of a traditional four-team tournament. The victors will then face either Fleetwood or Wycombe at a neutral venue for the right to join Coventry and Rotherham in the Championship.

Oxford were delivered a blow earlier this week when Nathan Holland was recalled by parent-club West Ham.

However, Taylor has been given the green light by Bristol City to stay at the Kassam Stadium until Karl Robinson's side's campaign is concluded.

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The ex-Bristol Rovers has been in fine form, netting 17 times in 35 appearances for Oxford.

Matty Taylor equalises against Pompey at Fratton Park. Picture: Joe PeplerMatty Taylor equalises against Pompey at Fratton Park. Picture: Joe Pepler
Matty Taylor equalises against Pompey at Fratton Park. Picture: Joe Pepler | PinPep

What's more, two of his goals have been against Pompey.

Taylor bagged Robinson's side's opening goal in a 2-2 Leasing.com Trophy draw at the Kassam Stadium in October.

A month later, he was on target against Kenny Jackett's troops again. His stoppage-time header salvaged Oxford a 1-1 draw at Fratton Park.

Pompey have confirmed Steve Seddon's loan from Birmingham has been extended, while Cameron McGeehan (Barnsley) and Ross McCrorie (Rangers) will also be available for the play-offs.

Kenny Jackett is also hopeful Sean Raggett can feature, despite his contract at Norwich expiring at the end of the month.

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