Oxford United stars Stan Mills and Brian De Keersmaecker must 'show up', writes fan columnist Jack Ward.

Well, where to start? 

Other than an electric start, a five minute collapse, a last gasp equaliser and players texting the manager to tell him they won’t be playing, it was a quiet start to life back in League One for Oxford United. 

Aaron Ramsey was asked for a reason behind the absences of both Stanley Mills and Brian De Keersmaecker following Oxford’s 2-2 draw with MK Dons, and his responses were a stark contrast to what we’ve heard from him regarding their situation throughout pre-season. 

On Mills first. It was only in his pre-match press conference the day before that he confirmed a deal had been agreed with Preston, with the move set to be formalised in January.

Of course, a disappointment but not a surprise.

Aaron Ramsey tells us Stan Mills messaged him this morning to say he was not ready to play today ❌ Mills trained this week and would’ve been included in the squad #oufc 🟡 — malachi (@MalachiObrey) August 15, 2026

Aaron Ramsey tells us Stan Mills messaged him this morning to say he was not ready to play today ❌ Mills trained this week and would’ve been included in the squad #oufc 🟡

— malachi........

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