CHEETAHS: FULL TEAM AHEAD

OXFORD manager Peter Schroeck says it was vital for his side to return to a regular seven-rider unit.

The Cheetahs have raced for the majority of the season utilising guests and rider replacement after Erik Riss was once again struck down by illness.

Now the Cowley club have moved to bring in Edward Kennett on a 28-day deal, which kicks off at home to Redcar on Wednesday, although Luke Killeen remains sidelined with a rib injury.

Schroeck said: “It made a lot of sense to sign a rider based in this country. It can become a logistical nightmare when signing a rider based in Europe during the season – we know that from experience.

“A big thank you to Nick Morris and all the other riders who have stood in for Erik, but we couldn’t keep on using guests.

“Otherwise, we could end up going, for example, to Plymouth and finding no-one is available to guest that night. We need seven of our own riders.”