Oxford United boss Aaron Ramsey faces Jamie Cumming decision

The U’s boss has a choice to make between starting the former Chelsea goalkeeper in League One for the first time in almost two months or to stick with Simon Eastwood between the sticks.

Cumming started his first match since coming off injured against Stevenage in August in a 2-2 draw (and 4-3 penalty shootout defeat) at Exeter City in the Jersey Mike’s Trophy on Tuesday.

Since the win at Stevenage, Eastwood has started every league match, impressing on his return to the starting place in around three years.

With the Yellows set to face Notts County on Saturday in the their first game back after the international break, Ramsey has a decision to make.

“It is one that is going to be difficult, of course, but…10 other positions already on the pitch are going to be difficult and everybody has their own case and right to want to start again.

“There are many decisions that I have to make that are difficult, but that’s why I’m in this position.

Oxford United goalkeeper Jamie Cumming (Image: Jason Dawson)

“I’ve got to make these decisions that I feel like it’s best to go and win a game of football.”

So far this season when players have been ruled out through injury, others have stepped up to the mark in their absence.

Eastwood is a fine example, as is academy graduate Mo Missanga.

Harrison Bradney is another youngster who earned his first professional appearance at Exeter, scoring on his debut, and could deputise for the injured Jamie McDonnell.

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“Everybody’s fully committed to the cause, to the way that we want to play and are ready,” Ramsey continued.

“So when those opportunities come up, then they’re ready to take them.

“We try to get the players in the best possible place to be able to influence games and have a real positive impact in them.

“Not just players through injuries, but also impact from the bench has been top this season, so far this season.

“Really pleased with Bradney and the way that he went about his business in pre-season was really good.

Oxford United goalkeeper Simon Eastwood (Image: James Williamson)

“I think he’s a player who has a lot of quality.

“Technically, he’s really good, clean on the ball, plays side-on, so he can play them forward passes, break lines.

“And also he showed a different side as well, where he can get into the box as well and arrive late and get on the end of things.

“Of course we have to be patient with him, but somebody who has definitely caught the eye and thoroughly deserves his start and his goal that he got on Tuesday night.

“So there are opportunities to have here.”