Andy Gray could be in line for his second debut for Bradford after completing a permanent switch from Leeds.
Striker Gray, 35, who teams back up with boss Phil Parkinson - the pair were at Charlton together - spent two years at Valley Parade from 2002-4 and is hoping to go straight into the starting line-up.
Parkinson may want to add some fresh legs to his forward line following his side's midweek Capital One Cup heroics against Aston Villa and James Hanson could be rested.
Winger Kyel Reid is pushing for a recall to the starting line-up following his recent recovery from a long-term groin injury, while Ritchie Jones and Ricky Ravenhill offer Parkinson alternative options in midfield.
Parkinson has no new injury or suspension problems apart from the odd minor knock as Bradford chase their first league win in four matches in a bid to climb back into a play-off place.
Oxford are hopeful influential midfielder Peter Leven will return for the trip.
The former MK Dons man missed their Johnstone's Paint Trophy defeat to Southend with a sore knee sustained against Sheffield United last weekend.
But the U's staff are optimistic he will be back in contention to face the Capital One Cup giantkillers.
Striker James Constable will be suspended again after his second red card of the campaign and despite fellow striker Tyrone Marsh scoring on Tuesday the youngster is set to be replaced in the starting line-up.
Fellow forward Jon-Paul Pittman is still out but centre-back Michael Duberry is pushing for a start after being rested in midweek.
Southend loanee Lewis Montrose could not feature in midweek as he was cup-tied but he could be involved at Valley Parade while Deane Smalley and Adam Chapman come into contention after spells on the sidelines.
