Newly-promoted Oxford United have confirmed that midfielder Josh McEachran has signed a new deal with the club, as per a report from the clubs official website.
The 31-year-old, who only joined the club last summer, has now put pen to paper on a new one-year deal. He follows in the footsteps of Will Vaulks who has arrived from Sheffield Wednesday recently in committing to the U’s for the 2024/25 season.
“I’m absolutely delighted to extend my stay at Oxford United,” he told the club’s website.
“Being a local boy from Oxford, I know what this club means to everyone in the area, and it was amazing to see the city get behind the team in what was such a special season.
“Now, I can’t wait to take part in the Championship with Oxford and see what we can achieve.”
The U’s were promoted to the Championship last season via the playoffs, following a fifth-placed finish in League One. They beat Peterborough United in the semi-finals before a 2-0 win against Bolton Wanderers in the final at Wembley Stadium.
Manager Des Buckingham, recruited from Mumbai City, was the mastermind behind their promotion. He added his pleasure at capturing McEachran for another season.
“We are delighted to have Josh remain at Oxford United. Josh played an important part in our team last season, particularly in the run-in as we pushed for the play-offs and then on to Wembley.
“His ability and experience were crucial and we will be looking for Josh to bring those qualities again for the 2024/25 campaign.”
McEachran played 34 times for the club in all competitions this season, starting 16 games after a move from MK Dons. As well as the Dons, the ex-Chelsea academy man made appearances for Brentford and is vastly experienced, having made over 250 appearances in the Championship and League One.
As well as Vaulks and McEachran, highly-rated West Ham United goalkeeper Jacob Knightbridge has also committed to Oxford’s squad for the upcoming campaign. The 20-year-old, out of contract this summer, played 21 times in Premier League 2 for the Hammers last season, achieving four clean sheets. He will join Buckingham’s side on a free transfer on July 1st.
One player the U’s are still waiting on a decision from is winger Josh Murphy, who has been the subject of several transfer rumours this season. Oxford have offered the player a new contract and are now waiting on the 27-year-old.
Writer’s View
This is good news for both the player and the club. It gives McEachran a stab at Championship football and keeps some stability for the U’s squad. Trying to make too many changes can be problematic after a promotion.
With Will Vaulks and Josh McEachran, that midfield is stacked with experience, with over 360 appearances in the second tier between them. However, they will need to add more depth to the squad if they’re to avoid a drop back into League One