Oxford United boss Liam Manning has assured Sonny Perkins that he is still in the future plans of the club, despite only playing three minutes so far this season.
The 19-year-old on loan from Leeds United has only made two substitute appearances for the U’s this season, failing to be included in the previous five matchday squads.
Speaking to the Oxford Mail, the former MK Dons boss said: “Sonny came in late [in the window], which doesn’t help because the team had already found some momentum, were winning games and performing well.
“Naturally, certain people tend to carry a bit of credit for what they’ve already done, so then it shifts back to being patient and trying to force my hand from how you train.”
The 38-year-old head coach went on to say:
“He’s improving in training but we still want more from him. He’s still going to play a part, it’s just a case of when. He’s just got to make sure he keeps his head down and keeps working.
“We support him and brought him in because we know some of the qualities he’s got. It’s about now making sure that he hits the level in training every day, so when someone’s level drops or there’s an injury, he’s ready to step in and grab the opportunity.”
The ex-West Ham United academy graduate joined Leeds on a free in the summer of 2022, going on to play four times for the West Yorkshire outfit and netting one goal in the FA Cup.
Writer’s View
Oxford United are a high-flying side in League One this season, with plenty of strong attacking options at their disposal, Perkins included. It is a tough side to break into if their forwards continue to perform at the level they have so far this season.
With their FA Cup campaign yet to start, the young attacker is sure to have only a handful more chances to find himself some minutes at the Kassam Stadium. Otherwise, he may be destined for another season without first-team football after only impressing in the Premier League 2 for his parent club last season.
Sam writes for The Real EFL, covering all EFL tiers while pursuing a Sports Journalism degree at the University of South Wales.
