OXFORD United’s scouting department got creative this week when it came to getting the inside track on Rotherham United.

The Sky Bet Championship fixture list sent the Millers to Leeds United on Monday, where they went down 3-0 to a side which included Kemar Roofe.

All the goals at Elland Road came after the break and the U’s believe they can exploit the same tactical tweak which worked for Garry Monk’s side.

It means if there is an Emirates FA Cup surprise at the AESSEAL New York Stadium, United will be quick to thank Roofe, who left them to join Leeds in July.

Michael Appleton, United’s head coach, said: “We spoke to Roofey last week to ask if he was happy to have a conversation after the game.

“To be fair it was pretty positive.

“Rotherham were very good in the first half and should have been 2-0 or 3-0 up.

“They got to grips with it in the second half, we know why and we’ll be keeping it to ourselves.

“If we allow them to get the first goal it could be a difficult day.

“If we can nick the first goal, then because of the position they’re in they are a bit vulnerable, you may have an opportunity.”

Appleton was grateful to Roofe for the pointers, but knows the advice will only be of value if United can take the information on board.

He said: “That can help, as long as the players go out and produce by following your instructions.

“You can have the best scouts and recruitment people in the world, but if the players aren’t intelligent enough to do what you’re asking them to do then it becomes difficult.”