LOSING a key player in the January transfer window would be inconceivable if Oxford United are serious about progressing, according to boss Pep Clotet.

Marvin Johnson and John Lundstram were sold during last summer.

While clearly a big enough offer would make United think twice, Clotet admitted losing another core member of the squad would be troubling.

He said: “We are trying to build.

“We already lost two really important players in the summer. If we lose an important player now I would start to think ‘what are we doing?’.

“Of course not, it’s not something that’s in my mind.”

One decision Clotet will have to make this month is whether they activate the clause to recall Kane Hemmings from his season-long loan at Mansfield Town.

The striker scored twice in Monday’s 3-1 win against Carlisle United.

It took his tally to seven goals in the last 12 appearances, which has not gone unnoticed.

Clotet said: “I’m watching very closely all the games he’s playing.

“At the minute he’s doing very well and is not only scoring but also playing at a good level helping his team.

“That’s the kind of player you want, that comes with a good momentum.

“But still it’s early for me to say.”