Burnell has missed the defeat by Wrexham and the draw with Woking

Oxford United have received a boost with the news that injured midfielder Joe Burnell has stepped up his rehabilitation from an ankle problem.

The former Northampton man has been out of action after picking up an ankle injury in United's only win of the season against Eastbourne.

The 27-year-old returned to light training at Milton on Wednesday.

Burnell is expected to have an outside chance of taking part in this weekend's game at Ebbsfleet.