OXFORD United are taking no chances with Cameron Brannagan’s knee injury.

The U’s hope the midfielder could return after more than a month on the sidelines during next Saturday’s visit of Shrewsbury Town in Sky Bet League One.

While that is the target, boss Karl Robinson revealed Brannagan could have to wait until the trip to MK Dons on December 14.

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The head coach said: “Hand on heart, I expect him to start away at MK.

“But what’s important? (Playing) one game and maybe a reoccurrence, or just leave him out for that?

“He’s out running and kicking balls and still has some pain on striking the ball, but it’s healing at a rapid rate.”

The 23-year-old sustained the injury against Rochdale on October 26 after an impressive start to the season where he notched seven goals.

He became the latest addition to a treatment room currently packed with midfielders.

George Thorne is training again after dislocating his shoulder in September, while Liverpool loanee Ben Woodburn is making good progress in his recovery from a broken foot.

Meanwhile, Shandon Baptiste is set to miss United’s next two matches with a groin issue.

But there is better news on Jamie Hanson, who is due back soon after three months out with a hamstring injury.

The 24-year-old’s return is even more welcome after Alex Gorrin picked up his fifth yellow card of the season at Southend United last weekend, ruling him out of the Shrewsbury clash through suspension.

Robinson added: “We’re hoping Jamie Hanson will be fit for Shrewsbury as well, because obviously Alex Gorrin is suspended.

“In that game we could have six midfield players out – if that isn’t an injury crisis I don’t know what is.”