Midfielder Micky Doyle says there's no time for excuses or soul-searching as Leeds United look to kick-start the promotion campaign at Elland Road on Tuesday.

United go into the game in second place and know that a victory could provide a platform for the vital closing weeks of the season.

"We've put too much hard work in from August, and we have to stand up and take it on the chin and get on," said Micky of a run that has produced one league win since December.

"You can use all the excuses you want, but it's just disappointing. You say 'this' or 'that' but it's all excuses - we have a good enough squad.

"We've worked so hard not to let it slip, and with this group it won't happen. Everyone wants to get the job finished off now.

"We're going through the emotions a bit at the moment, but it's about applying ourselves in the right way."

United will come up against a determined Oldham side on Tuesday. The Latics are strong at the back and they have also won at Elland Road on their last two visits.

"We'd like to play them off the park, but we'll take an ugly win," added Doyle.

"I'm sure Oldham will be rigid and hard to break down.

"Every point is going to count between now and the end of the season so you have to get as many wins as possible."