Oxford United

Oxford United have completed the signing of Michael Collins on a one-year deal with the option for a further year.

The 28-year-old midfielder is a former Republic of Ireland under-21 international who began his career at Huddersfield Town, scoring 20 times in just over 200 appearances. He then moved to Scunthorpe United in the Championship, captaining the side, and was part of their promotion-winning side last season, as well as having a spell on loan at AFC Wimbledon.

He becomes Michael Appleton’s first signing and the United Head Coach believes the midfielder’s experience will play a big part for The U’s this season:

“We have a young squad and a small squad and we know we need a few experienced additions. Michael has played 300 league games, most of them at a higher level, and will bring a little bit of know-how and quality to the squad. He is a good player and adds something different to what we currently have in midfield. He likes to win the ball back, he can dominate the centre of the park and he has attacking attributes as well so I am delighted that he has joined us. 

“He has won promotions, he knows the league and at six foot he has a presence about him as well. We will continue to work hard to bring players in and hopefully there will be a few other new faces arriving soon as well.”

Michael Collins said:

“I was really impressed by what Michael told me about the club and what the new owners want to happen. Something looks to be happening at Oxford and I am excited to be part of it. I know one or two of the lads from my time at Scunthorpe and they have told me a lot of good things about the set-up and the fans so I can’t wait to get started now.”

Michael will wear squad number 19 and is likely to be involved at Oxford City tonight.

See the first interview in Yellow Player now