Nicky Wroe is expecting Oxford United to be able to show their ability on the ball against promotion rivals Rochdale at Spotland this afternoon.

The game will see both teams put impressive records on the line, with the U’s – Sky Bet League Two’s best away side – visiting Dale, who have the division’s top home record.

Keith Hill’s men moved into the top three at United’s expense a week ago, but an eighth away win of the season would see the tables turned this afternoon.

Wroe welcomes the opportunity to take on a fellow promotion contender, believing it will be different from their recent games, most of which have come against sides in the bottom half.

He said: “Generally the teams at the top play a slightly different brand of football which will probably suit us.

“The ones down at the bottom are really scrapping for their lives and sometimes it becomes more of a fight than a football match.

“There will be a bit more quality in these games, but they will be tight and nobody will want to give anyone an inch.”

United find themselves in an excellent position to challenge for promotion into League One and will face all their rivals before May.

Wroe, who joined on loan from Preston in January, thinks it is key to stick with the routines which have served them well so far.

“We’re at the business end of the season now and as a footballer you want to be involved in promotions,” he said.

“It’s important to realise what you’ve done well to get yourself into that position and try to keep it as similar as you can.

“Those things have got you where you are, so why should you change what’s been a winning formula?”

Rochdale have won 11 of their 17 home games in League Two this season and U’s caretaker manager Mickey Lewis is full of respect for their style.

He said: “Football-wise they are the best team in the league, up there with Chesterfield.

“They play a really good way. They don’t change the way they play and do it while not on a massive budget.”