Oxford United boss reacts to potential West Brom deduction

The U’s travel to Pride Park on Saturday to take on Derby who are trying to force their way into the Championship play-off spots with just four games to go.

Oxford are fighting relegation and are two points from safety, behind 21st-placed West Brom who have this week been accused of breaching EFL profit and sustainability rules.

A points deduction for the Baggies would massively aid the Yellows in their efforts to stay in the second tier.

“It’s not in my control,” reasoned Bloomfield when asked about the ramifications of a potential deduction on United.

Oxford United head coach Matt Bloomfield punches the air (Image: Jason Dawson)

“It’s for other people to decide what’s right and what’s wrong. We need to put points on the board and that’s the only thing I’m focussing on.”

Oxford face the Rams tomorrow lunchtime in one of three Championship early kick-offs.

Whilst the U’s are again in the midst of a relegation battle this campaign, John Eustace’s men are pushing for a top-six finish after also surviving in the league last season.

“[They are a] very good team,” Bloomfield considered.

Oxford United celebrate Mark Harris’ goal against Watford (Image: Jason Dawson)

“I think John’s done a great job. [They were in] a similar position to us now, this time last year, and stayed up.

“He did a great job to keep them in the league. They’ve gone and recruited over the last summer some real Championship know-how and experience. They’ve got Championship know-how throughout their team.

“They’ve had a very, very good season to kick on from where they were this time last year and knocking on the door for the play-offs. So, we know we’re in for a very tough test tomorrow afternoon.

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Derby County’s Carlton Morris celebrates scoring against Southampton (Image: Peter Tarry/PA Wire)

“There are so many teams with so much to play for with four games left. Derby still believe they can get in the play-offs.

“They know how big the game is for them. We know how big the game is for us. There’s lots riding on it for both teams.

“We’re trying to win games and if you can’t win, then don’t get beat.

“The old football mantra, we want to put points on the board, we need to put points on the board and we’re doing that in the best possible way we can.

“There was a lot of talk when I came in the building about a lack of consistency. We couldn’t put two performances together as a team over the course of the season up until January and we’ve been consistently putting building blocks in place and we feel like we can keep building on that.”