WITH all due respect to the sides Oxford United have faced in Sky Bet League One, Bramall Lane is where their promotion will really hit home.

A decade ago it was hosting Premier League football and average gates are still close to 20,000.

Occasions like this were one of the incentives the U’s were aiming for during the run-in last season.

The Uniteds of Sheffield and Oxford have not been on a level playing field since the 20th century, but head coach Michael Appleton is keen to ensure the visitors arrive knowing they belong in such company.

He said: “Sheffield United, Bolton, Charlton, Coventry – the list goes on with the big clubs in this league.

“We want to make sure that we’re mixing with the better sides at this level.

“We won’t be going there as tourists.

“We’ll be going there to win the game. That will be the same anywhere this year.

“We haven’t got the mentality to sit back and soak up pressure.”

Results so far mean the pressure is firmly on the hosts this weekend.

The pre-season title favourites sit bottom of the fledgling table, awaiting their first victory of the campaign.

United were in a similar position before last Saturday’s success against Peterborough United, which eased the tension which had built up during below-par defeats at Bristol Rovers and Fleetwood Town.

Appleton is certain it will not be long before the Blades are competing at the other end of the table.

But without wishing to tempt fate, the U’s boss knows there is an opportunity for his side if they can set the right tone from kick-off.

He said: “The reality is it’s probably a good time (to play them).

“I’m convinced if we take the lead on Saturday there will be a little bit of doubt in their minds.

“We just have to make sure we capitalise on that and not be happy with one (goal).

“On the other side, if they take the lead it gets their tails up, but they will still be vulnerable thinking they haven’t got that win under their belts yet.”

And in that scenario, the bumper crowds which are the Yorkshire side’s big weapon could become a hindrance.

Appleton said: “I think that can work in our favour and it’s something we’ll look to do.

“I’m sure it’s something all teams that go there this year will look to do it.”

He added: “I’m still convinced if we finish a place below Sheffield United we’ll have done pretty well.

“They will kick into gear at some point, I just hope they don’t do it on Saturday.”