Rowett has succeeded Des Buckingham as U’s head coach, but with his appointment only coming just over 24 hours before the visit to Leeds United, he will take a background approach by watching from the stands at Elland Road.

United first team assistant coaches Craig Short and Chris Hackett, plus goalkeeping coach Lewis Price, have led training this week in the aftermath of Buckingham’s sacking.

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Rowett said: “It was always quite clear this week that if things had moved to a point where maybe by Wednesday night that everything was clear, and then Thursday, it’s easy to come in and impact the group.

“It’s very difficult to do that with no training. I know Shorty really well and worked with him at Derby County, so the team are in good hands.

“Hopefully they can go and put a good performance in, but it’s up to them to do what they think is the right thing.

“I’ve never been one to interfere at the last minute, but certainly for me, Sunday will be me trying to help move forward in the direction that I think is the right way to go.”