Oxford United have further strengthened their playing squad with the signing of Northern Irish winger Gavin Whyte from Crusaders for an undisclosed fee on a three-year-deal.
Whyte, 22, was called into the full Northern Ireland squad in May after starring for the under 21 side, as well as helping Crusaders to back to back league titles with 23 goals in 20 games; form that saw him win the Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association Player of the Year award last season.
Manager Karl Robinson was delighted to have completed the signing despite plenty of interest from other clubs.
“He is quick, skilful and has an eye for goal and we knew that so many other clubs were looking at him, including those in higher leagues. It says a lot about Oxford United and the reputation we have, that Gavin wanted to come here to play his football.
“Gavin will add real pace out wide but can also play more centrally, and we look forward to working with him. The players have been great in pre-season so far and we are in good shape, but we will continue to work just as hard as always to add to that and to keep strengthening in all areas.”
Gavin told us
“I wanted to make sure it was the right move for me and as soon as I found out Oxford were interested I knew this was where I wanted to come. I have heard a lot of good things about both the Manager and the club and now I am determined to work hard, keep progressing and be part of a really successful season.”
The club will wait for international clearance before Gavin is involved in matches, making it highly unlikely that he will be involved in the friendlies at Oxford City and Hampton and Richmond this Saturday.
See a first interview in iFollow