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Oxford United left-back Joe Skarz has put pen to paper on a brand new three year deal. The 25 year-old joined Michael Appleton’s side in January after leaving Championship side Rotherham and following 18 appearances for ‘The U’s’, has signed a new contract that will see him stay at the Kassam Stadium until the summer of 2018.
Skarz proved to be an important signing as Oxford pulled away from the relegation zone in the final part of the season. With no defeats in their last 8 matches, Appleton’s side finished a comfortable 20 points clear of the bottom two in 13th place. Skarz, who tasted promotion from League Two with Bury was understandably delighted to secure his new deal;
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club and am really looking forward to next season. The Board and the Manager are very ambitious and have big plans for the club and I want to play a part in that. Everyone, from the players to the fans, has made me feel very welcome and we ended the season so positively that I can’t wait to get back for pre-season and playing again.”
Appleton was pleased to get the signing of Skarz done early:
“Joe is an excellent defender and a great pro to have around the club. He has won promotion from this league, and the one above, and his experience will be a massive plus for us next season.”
Skarz’s new contract is the first piece of squad news to come out of the Kassam Stadium since the season finished. The U’s retained list is expected this week with a number of players out of contract including captain Jake Wright, midfielder Danny Rose and injury-prone striker Will Hoskins. Andy Whing is also out of contract but hinted in an interview after the final game of the season that he may consider retirement and a coaching role at the club.
Head Coach Michael Appleton has said he wants to get his business done early and reports have linked him with a move for Exeter City midfielder Liam Sercombe – who is leaving the Devon club this summer – and Portsmouth striker Ryan Taylor who is out of contract at Fratton Park.
