Born in Bicester, Sam was captain of United’s successful under-18 side, having initially joined the U’s at the age of nine. He was awarded a professional contract upon completion of his scholarship at the end of the 2012/13 season. He signed a new contract in May 2014 and another in June 2015.

Sam scored his first goal for the club against Southend on 17th January 2015. Although initially a centre back, Sam played regularly at right back during the 2018/19 season. He signed another one-year contract in March 2017 and another in June 2018 before being offered a two-year deal extension in June 2020. In March 2021 he extended this by a further three years. He is United’s current longest-serving player and was voted both Players’ and Supporters’ Player of the Year for 2020/21.