MARCUS Browne is aiming to step up for Oxford United in their hour of need – and steal a march on Gavin Whyte in their goalscoring competition in the process.

Karl Robinson’s squad has been depleted by injuries, a suspension to Jamie Mackie and international call-ups ahead of their Sky Bet League One clash at home to Gillingham.

Up to ten players are unavailable and with the bench likely to be packed with teenagers, the onus will be on those who start as United look to climb out of the relegation zone.

While only 20, Browne has shown he can be a key player during a productive loan spell from West Ham and the winger is unfazed at being in the spotlight.

He said: “There are quite a few injured. It’s just unlucky, but the boys playing know they have a big role. Everyone’s up for it.”

“I can handle it. I want to play as many games as I can.

“I think I’ll be fine and I’m in a good place now.”

One of those missing today is Whyte, who made his first international start on Thursday night in Northern Ireland’s 0-0 draw against Republic of Ireland.

The 22-year-old is United’s top-scorer this season with five goals and Browne believes they have spurred each other on.

Just one goal behind in the scoring stakes, the Hammers loanee has an eye on making up ground today in Whyte’s absence.

He said: “I’m buzzing for Gav, he’s deserved it because he’s come in and done really well.

“We’re quite close when we’re playing.

“We talk a lot about how we’re doing in the match or if he’s scored he says to me ‘you’ve got to score now’ and if I score I’ll say ‘Gav, it’s your turn’.

“If he’s doing well it gives me that bit of encouragement to do the same. You can feed off each other in positive ways.

“We do have a bit of a (goalscoring) competition going on.

“Every game is an opportunity, but especially with Gav not being here it’s my chance to get one up on him.”

United are likely to need players from the under 18s to fill their bench.

It is hoped Ricky Holmes can play some part despite an ongoing back issue, while Tony McMahon’s cracked rib creates a vacancy at right back.

While Cameron Norman and Sam Long have played there this season, Jamie Hanson is also being considered for the role.

Josh Parker, who had a brief spell with the U’s, is missing due to international duty with Antigua & Barbuda, while Callum Reilly (groin) is expected to be sidelined.

TODAY’S LINE-UPS

Oxford Utd: from Eastwood, Hanson, Nelson, Dickie, Ruffels, Mousinho, Henry, Brannagan, Browne, Smith, Holmes, Bradbury, Spasov, Lopes, Long, Norman, Garbutt, Mitchell.

Gillingham: from Holy, O’Neill, Zakuani, Fuller, Ogilvie, Charles-Cook, Oldaker, Byrne, Hanlan, Eaves, Mbo, Simpson, Lasseri, Bingham, List, Parrett, Hadler.

  • OXFORD United will host Tottenham Hutspur Under 21s in the last 32 of the Checkatrade Trophy following yesterday's draw.