MICHAEL Appleton was hugely encouraged by the way Oxford United were able to rotate their side and still come out on top against Charlton Athletic.

The 1-0 win was secured by a long-range effort from Conor McAleny - one of three players brought into the starting line-up.

Liam Sercombe and Joe Skarz were also promoted to the XI, as Chris Maguire, Rob Hall and Kane Hemmings were rested.

With United in the middle of 13 games in the space of just 43 days, the whole squad will need to contribute, so Appleton was delighted to see the changes pay off.

He said: "I said to the staff it would be more of a risk not to freshen it up.

"A couple of lads have come in and we've changed it up a bit.

"It was a little bit disjointed at times and I'll take it on the chin, because ultimately we're going to need nights like this between now and the end of the season if we're going to be challenging.

"Even though technically we weren't great but I thought there was a lot of energy in the team.

"I'm delighted the lads who came in, Conor especially, did ever so well.

"It was a fantastic goal, but he's more than capable.

"We've seen it for Everton's under 23s, but also more recently at Wigan."

The next challenge is on Saturday with a trip to Chesterfield, who did the U's a favour by claiming a goalless draw at in-form Millwall last night.

He said: "The lads will have a well-deserved day off and come Thursday it will be all systems go for Chesterfield.

"It's a massive game, they got a fantastic point against Millwall.

"They will be making it as difficult as they can for us."