TERRY McPhillips admits it is a pity Blackpool’s trip to Oxford United did not come earlier in the season.

While the Tangerines will arrive at the Kassam Stadium tomorrow 12 points and 11 places better off than their hosts, both sides are in good form.

United’s position in the bottom six owes to a dreadful start and McPhillips (pictured) knows they are a different proposition now.

He told the Blackpool Gazette: “They didn’t have a great start, but they have picked up and got a 2-2 draw at Peterborough.

“I’ve been watching clips of that and they have a threat going forward.

“It’s a tougher game than (it would have been) in the early weeks, when they didn’t start so strong.

“It’s a tough game and we’ll have to go there and put a performance on.

“They’ve got some really good players and they’re a big club in this league.

“It’s like anyone, on their day they can beat anyone and we’re the same, so it will be an interesting game.”

Blackpool’s position on the fringes of the play-offs has surprised some, but McPhillips is well aware consistency is the key.

He said: “If we can make the play-offs that would be brilliant.

“Are we capable? I think we are, but you’ve got to do it week-in, week-out – Oxford away, Barnsley at home – whoever it is you’ve got to keep your standards high.”