Young striker Aaron Woodley today achieved a lifetime's ambition and signed as a professional footballer with Oxford United.

Aaron, who turned 17 last week, signed a three year deal with the U's and told us:

"It has been a whirlwind since the season started. I scored a few goals early on, was asked to step up and train with the first team, then had a taste of playing senior football with a couple of substitute appearances. To top it all off and be offered the chance to sign as a professional is really exciting and I am happy to get this chance at such a great club

"I'm happy for all the coaches in the Centre of Excellence age group teams as well because they work so hard with all of us and this is what the work is for."

Aaron, from Abingdon, has been with United since he was nine and Youth Development Officer Les Taylor believes he has a bright future:

"Aaron has plenty of ability. He is quick, very sharp around goal and he also links play well. He has deserved his chance in the first team squad this season and fully deserves this contract. It is up to him now to make sure this is just another step and he keeps working at his game, listens to the right people, and works hard.

"It is great news for Youth Development as well. We have some really exciting players coming through at all ages and the future looks very bright indeed."

Chairman Kelvin Thomas said:

"Aaron has really impressed us all with his development this season. It is another feather in the cap for our youth system because we keep unearthing and developing local youngsters and giving them a chance to become professional footballers. Our current under 18s had another good FA Youth Cup win this week and are looking good, but there is strength and talent in all of the age groups from the under 9s right through.

"Aaron has been given a fantastic chance now and I'm pleased for him, his parents and everyone else who has helped him along the way. It is also great for the club because I think the fans always like to see local lads given their chance, but as I have just told Aaron this is the beginning for him as a professional. He has shown great promise but he hasn't had a career yet, so he has to keep his feet on the ground, his head down and continue to work hard at his game."