MARK Harris has been backed to score a minimum of 15 goals for Oxford United this season.

The Welsh striker joined the U’s from Cardiff City in the summer, and has so far notched six goals in 17 appearances across all competitions.

His strikes have been split equally across Sky Bet League One and the EFL Trophy, with his latest goal coming as a substitute in the 5-0 hammering of Chelsea Under-21s in the latter competition on Tuesday night.

However, that was the first time he found the back of the net since September 5, while his last league goal came when he notched a brace at Derby County on August 15.

READ ALSO: Oxford United interim boss reveals when club hopes to appoint new head coach

United interim head coach Craig Short said: “Mark doesn’t hide and I’m pleased for him. That’s why I got him on, just to get him a goal and give him some confidence.

“He’s probably doubted himself at times, but he’s a good number nine and he’ll do well at this level. I’m predicting he’ll score 15 goals plus this year.”

Josh Murphy also made an impression against Chelsea’s youngsters, scoring twice and causing all sorts of problems on the left wing.

Short said: “Josh is someone I wouldn’t want to play against. That pace and power he’s got, he can shoot with both feet, and he trains exceptionally well every day.

“He came back in great shape in the summer. He won everything, the jump test, the sprint test and the four-minute test.”