Shrimps attempt to halt Oxford`s play-off ambitions

Morecambe boss Sammy McIlroy could include striker Danny Carlton in his squad for the home clash with Oxford.

Carlton has rejoined the Shrimps on a short-term deal after impressing in training following his release by Bury.

McIlroy said: "Danny has done well in training and we know what he is capable of.

"He can offer us something different and we are all pleased to be working with him again."

McIlroy made two changes to his side for the 3-3 draw at Northampton in midweek, with Laurence Wilson and Andy Holdsworth returning to the side at the expense of Garry Hunter and Scott Brown.

Winger Chris Shuker will be assessed after missing the last two games with a hamstring injury but defender Paul Scott will definitely remain absent as he recovers from a knee operation.

Oxford boss Chris Wilder will welcome back defender Damien Batt.

The 26-year-old right-back has completed a three-match ban following his sending-off at Southend on February 1 and will return to the squad.

However, Batt may have to be content with a place among the substitutes due to the impressive form of his stand-in, Ben Purkiss.

The U`s have no other injury or suspension problems to contend with, although Wilder may be tempted to make changes to his starting line-up after lambasting his side following the 0-0 draw at Stevenage in midweek.

Midfielder Josh Payne and winger Simon Hackney could both be at risk of losing their places, with Asa Hall and Steve MacLean pushing for recalls.

Copyright (c) PA Sport 2009, All Rights Reserved.