Oxford United are pleased to announce the signing of Everton winger Stanley Mills, who joins the U’s on a season-long loan.
The highly rated 19-year old joined Everton from Leeds United as a 14-year-old and signed a professional deal at 17. A regular in the Under 21 side at Goodison Park, Stanley registered 14 goals and assists in 21 appearances last season and made regular appearances in the First Team squad.
Stanley is the son of former England international Danny Mills, while his brother George is an international 1,500m runner.
Stanley, speaking exclusively to OUFC.co.uk, told us: “A first loan is always a big move for someone my age, I’m thrilled to get this chance. I spoke to people in the game who all say that Oxford play decent football, which is going to suit the way I like to play. When I came down, spoke with the Manager, saw the facilities, saw the pitch and the way the club is set up for the future, it all looks like a great fit for me. I can’t wait to get started.”
Liam Manning welcomed Stanley, saying: “The Everton Academy has a fantastic record, not just for bringing players through to play for their First Team but also for giving them a love and passion for the game. He is a very creative player and he knows how to channel that to fit in with the way the team want to play, and that’s exciting for us.
”We have now added seven players to the group, and we will keep working hard to bring in players of a really high calibre as we build towards the first game in ten days’ time.”
Stanley will make his first appearance for the club in the final pre-season game of the summer at home to QPR on Saturday, with Head of Recruitment, Ed Waldron, more than pleased to see him join.
“He is another player we have been monitoring for a while. Plenty of clubs were doing that so it’s great to get it over the line. He is quick, he stretches the game, and he reads the play really well for someone so young. It’s another good sign when a club like Everton send us such a promising young player, knowing we will nurture them and help them flourish in a successful team.”
Stanley will wear number 7 and joins James Beadle, Fin Stevens, Jordan Thorniley, Josh McEachran, Ruben Rodrigues and Mark Harris in Liam Manning’s new-look squad.
There’s still time to join them for the season ahead. CLICK HERE for details on Season Tickets.