Oxford United are pleased to announce the signing of defender Joe Bennett, who joins the club on a short-term deal.
The experienced left-back, 33, started his career at Middlesbrough before a £3 million move to Aston Villa. After loan spells at Bournemouth, Brighton and Sheffield Wednesday, he made over 150 appearances for Cardiff City before joining Wigan Athletic in 2021. Having left Wigan in the summer he is a free agent, and Head Coach Des Buckingham welcomed the former England under-21 international, saying:
“Joe has played most of his football at a higher level but knows this league and his experience will be a great help for what is predominantly a young group. Greg Leigh’s injury means Joe will come in and compete on the left-side of defence straight away.”
Joe told oufc.co.uk: “I came in and had a look around on Monday and it is very impressive. The new Gaffer has good ideas and wants to push on from where the club currently is and that appeals to me. I’ve stayed fit, I feel ready and I can’t wait to get started.”
Head of Recruitment Ed Waldron, said: “Joe is highly experienced and a really good character. He knows his role in the team, likes to get forward from defence and has a really good delivery. This move works for all of us - we get competition for a key position and Joe gets a chance to impress and show what he can do.”
Joe will wear number 12 for the U’s and could go straight into the squad against Grimsby Town at home in the Emirates FA Cup on Saturday. For tickets, please visit www.oufctickets.co.uk
