Oxford United midfielder Cameron Brannagan was substituted in first-half stoppage time during the team’s 1-0 victory over Stoke City, but head coach Des Buckingham has downplayed concerns over a serious injury.
Oxford secured their third Championship win of the season with a 1-0 victory over Stoke City at the Kassam Stadium. Despite a cagey first half, the U’s found the breakthrough minutes into the second half when Idris El Mizouni slotted home from 12 yards after receiving a well-timed pass from Brannagan’s replacement, Ruben Rodrigues.
The victory pushed Oxford into the play-off places, lifting spirits after a quiet first half where both teams struggled to create clear-cut chances. Stoke City came closest when Oxford defender Elliott Moore blocked Eric Bocat’s 16th-minute effort, while Mark Harris had a low shot comfortably saved by Stoke goalkeeper Viktor Johansson.
The game turned in Oxford’s favour early in the second half when Rodrigues set up the decisive goal. After winning possession high up the pitch, Tyler Goodrham found Rodrigues on the right, and his cross reached El Mizouni, who made no mistake from close range. Oxford grew in confidence after the goal, with Siriki Dembele forcing a save from Johansson shortly after.
The U’s nearly extended their lead on two occasions. Peter Kioso missed a golden opportunity to score when he blasted over from five yards following a corner, while El Mizouni’s strike was deflected over the bar. Stoke’s Andrew Moran summed up a frustrating afternoon for the visitors when he skied a shot late on, leaving Oxford goalkeeper Jamie Cumming largely untested.
Brannagan, who received treatment following a tough 50/50 challenge, appeared ready to continue but was eventually replaced by Ruben Rodrigues. Speaking after the match, Buckingham explained: “He went into a tackle, a proper Cam Brannagan tackle, there was no half-hearting there, it was full Cam Brannagan, but he’s just felt something in his knee as he’s done it. It was precautionary hopefully more than anything. If people see him in a knee brace, that will be precautionary more than anything.”
Buckingham confirmed that Brannagan would undergo a scan but remained optimistic, saying, ““We’ll send him for the traditional scan, which touch wood we haven’t had to use too much so far this year, and reassess him when we get the results of that.”
Who is Cameron Brannagan?
Cameron Brannagan began his career at Liverpool, where he came through the club’s youth academy. Brannagan made nine appearances for Liverpool’s first team, mainly featuring in cup competitions. In January 2018, he moved to Oxford United, where he has become a key player.
Known for his versatility in midfield, Brannagan has made over 200 appearances for Oxford, contributing with goals and assists regularly. His ability to play in both attacking and defensive roles has made him a crucial figure in Oxford’s squad. In the 2021–22 season, Brannagan had a standout campaign, scoring 14 goals in all competitions, a career-high for him.
Throughout his time at Oxford, Brannagan has also been influential in the team’s pushes for promotion and strong cup runs, cementing his place as a fan favourite and one of the team’s most important players.
Writer’s View
It’s great news that Brannagan isn’t seriously injured, but his departure was a turning point in the game. Des Buckingham’s side showed resilience and tactical discipline, particularly in the second half, after a relatively lacklustre first period. The decision to substitute Brannagan proved pivotal, as Ruben Rodrigues came on to provide the assist for the only goal. The team’s ability to stay compact at the back and create chances in the final third will be vital as they aim to build on this victory.
The match also highlighted the strength in depth Oxford possesses, with Rodrigues stepping in seamlessly and the team adapting quickly after Brannagan’s departure. Buckingham’s approach to letting his players express themselves individually while maintaining a cohesive team structure is clearly paying off. This win boosts Oxford into the top ten, and if they can keep their key players fit, they could continue to challenge at the upper end of the table.
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