Young midfielder Josh Ashby signs professional contract with Oxford United
Oxford United are delighted to announce that midfielder Josh Ashby has signed his first professional contract with the club. The promising 17-year-old has signed a three year deal with the club, with the option of a further two years.
Oxford born Josh has been part of the club’s successful Under 18 side for the last two seasons. A hard-working central midfielder who shows great composure on the ball he has also scored important goals for Chris Allen’s young side. Chris said:
“Josh fully deserves his chance. He listens to advice, works hard at his game and has been outstanding for us. He really underlined his potential in the FA Youth Cup games against Swansea and Cardiff and he has done well when he has trained with the first team. We think he has a very bright future and are pleased that it will be with Oxford United.”
Josh has been a regular in the Development Squad games this season and follows Max Crocombe, Ty Marsh, Callum O’Dowda, David Lynn and Sam Long into the professional ranks. All have come through a Youth Development System that the club firmly believes in and with fellow youngsters Josh Ruffels and Matt Bevans also part of the first team squad the investment of time and money into this area is starting to pay off. The Development Squad has already seen seven players progress into the first team in its first season.
Chairman Ian Lenagan said:
“It is great to see talented young footballers from Oxford as part of the first team squad. Josh is a player we all hold in great regard. He knows he has a lot of hard work ahead of him but at 17 he has a wonderful opportunity to be part of what the club is trying to build for the future.”
Josh was thrilled to be given the chance to play for his home town club:
“It is something you dream of; to be a professional footballer at your local club. I will not get carried away though. Chris Allen has been great and has always said that if you work hard enough you will get your opportunity. I just want to keep working at my game and make the step up from youth team games to training and playing as a professional.”