How Oxford United can still avoid Championship relegation

Heading into this weekend’s second-to-last match against Sheffield Wednesday, Oxford United still have a chance to escape relegation from the Championship.

Currently sitting 22nd in the table, the U’s are six points adrift of safety, with Charlton Athletic just above them in the standings.

This week, Blackburn Rovers secured their own survival by beating Sheffield United 3-1 away from home. Fortunately for Matt Bloomfield’s side, Charlton fell 2-1 to Ipswich Town, meaning Oxford’s hopes remain alive with just two games left to play.

To stay up, the Yellows must win both of their remaining matches—against Sheffield Wednesday and Millwall—while also hoping Charlton loses theirs against Hull City and Swansea City. If those results play out, Oxford would likely overtake the Addicks on goal difference, as they currently trail Nathan Jones’s side by two goals in that regard, securing a narrow escape from relegation.

That said, Oxford’s fate could already be sealed by the time their 3:00 PM kick-off on Saturday arrives, if Charlton beats Hull in the earlier lunchtime fixture.

Meanwhile, West Bromwich Albion, though presently safe, are still awaiting a ruling over an alleged breach of the EFL’s profit and sustainability rules. The Baggies could face a points deduction, casting doubt over their status. For instance, a two-point penalty would leave them level on points with Charlton, making them vulnerable to being overtaken by Oxford if West Brom lose their final two games and the U’s win both of theirs by a comfortable margin.