Oxford United have now taken 10 points from a possible 12 under Gary Rowett following their 1-1 draw at Preston on Saturday.
Former U’s defender Ben Purkiss has been discussing Rowett’s impressive start to life at the Kassam Stadium on The Dub podcast alongside host Robyn Cowen, EFL expert George Elek and BBC Oxford’s sports editor Jerome Sale.
Purkiss said he had noticed “a few tweaks in the shape” since Rowett took over.
“I felt like the second half against Preston, it looked to me that he adapted and went to pretty much a three at the back,” Purkiss said.
“He almost matched up Preston and the way in which they played. So, he’s shown the ability to adapt.”
Oxford have beaten fellow strugglers Cardiff and Plymouth in their four-game undefeated run, as well as a Millwall side with only one win in 11.
Purkiss believes the relatively kinder fixtures could have influenced the club’s decision to sack former boss Des Buckingham three weeks ago.
“That may have been factored into the decision as to the timing of moving Des on and getting Gary in because they were four fixtures you look at and target as realistic opportunities,” Purkiss added.
“To be fair, he [Rowett] has taken them. I think you’ve seen a bit more calmness and composure around the team.”
