Oxford United boss Liam Manning says he is expecting a "reaction" from his team against Carlisle United after their heavy midweek defeat.

The U's were thrashed 5-1 by Championship side Bristol City in the Carabao Cup first round on Wednesday.

Manning says he is not "panicking" as a result of that loss and their 2-0 opening league defeat at Cambridge United.

But he is expecting better in front of home fans when the Blues visit this weekend.

“The big thing for me now is how we respond," said Manning.

"We won’t panic after two games and it won’t ruin a very solid pre-season where we did a lot of good work.

"We won’t get over emotional after just five or six days of a long season but I will be expecting a reaction on Saturday.

“There will be a good crowd, there will be a decent atmosphere and we can’t wait to get out there again, in front of our own supporters, show a response and show what we can do.”

Oxford have fitness question marks over Cameron Brannagan and Jordan Thorniley after both limped off in the cup defeat.

Manning told the club website they would be assessed in Friday's training before a decision would be made on their availability for Saturday's Kassam Stadium clash.

Players who will come back into contention include Josh McEachran, Marcus Browne, Sam Long, Ruben Rodrigues and Mark Harris.

“Home form is always a key thing” former MK Dons boss Manning added.

“Our fans have been brilliant on the road at Cambridge and Bristol. Now it is our turn to give them something to cheer about with the first home game."

Oxford have won only one home game since January as they struggled in the second half of last season.