ROB Dickie knows Oxford United must be on their guard to keep out a former teammate this afternoon.

Sky Bet League One opponents Bradford City have ex-U’s loanee Jack Payne pulling the strings.

And although only briefly crossing paths at United, Dickie is well aware of the 24-year-old’s undoubted quality.

Payne, who is the Bantams’s joint top-scorer, had a successful five-month loan spell at the Kassam Stadium last season, netting seven goals in 34 appearances.

Centre back Dickie is under no illusions United will have their work cut out if they are to record a ninth clean sheet in 12 matches.

He said: “Most teams in this league have really good attacking players.

“And certainly this weekend we’re aware of what Jack Payne is capable of.

“It’s another challenge we need to come out the other side of.”