Martin Allen’s Barnet will thrive off their underdog status ahead of their clash with Oxford United, according to Michael Appleton.

The Bees have picked up four points this week, beating York and drawing at Hartlepool to halt a run of three straight defeats.

Their inconsistent form through the season has left them in 19th place but they will be looking to build on a good run of results with victory against Oxford at the Kassam Stadium.

And Appleton expects Allen will try to use United’s favourites label to rally his charges against the hosts.

“Saturday is going to be a completely different game,” he said, speaking after the 1-0 win over Plymouth.

“We are going to have to deal with a very direct style of play, Barnet will be fired up and they will love the fact they are coming to the Kassam where we haven’t lost this season.

“They are going to want to put that right, but we are proud people and want to keep that run going.“