What do Oxford need?

They need players to fit the Gary Rowett style, although a centre-back to replace the injured Ben Nelson and a holding midfielder were probably on the list anyway.

What sort of business are they likely to do?

As they fight relegation, it may be a busier window than they had initially hoped. They have decisions to make about players they have out on loan (especially Jack Currie) and those on the fringes of their team that they may wish to loan out.

How successful have they been in recent January windows?

They did ok last season with Jamie Cumming and Owen Dale coming in. Both featured in the play-off final. The most reliable player of the past two years – Ciaron Brown – came the January before.

Are there likely to be any notable departures?

There was talk at the end of the August window that Mark Harris may be a target, but his goals have dried up a little. If someone wants midfielder Tyler Goodrham they are going to have to spend big.

How key is the window?

Given Oxford are likely to take a more pragmatic approach to the second half of the season, the pivot away from attack-minded wide play will necessitate a successful January, if the team is to stay up.