Kemar and Liam get set for a new challenge
Oxford United’s two ‘new boys’ share one common goal next season; to be part of a U’s side challenging at the top of the table. Kemar Roofe turned a successful loan into a permanent deal on Tuesday, with Liam Sercombe joining from Exeter City 24 hours later. Both will be looking to hit the ground running when United kick off next season.
“I’ve played against Oxford a few times and I know that their fans make some noise. Hopefully we can give them plenty to be proud of next season” Liam told Yellow Player when he signed. “I want to be part of a team that gets promoted here and I know there is a massive chance of that happening with the squad they have here and the players that are being added to that.”
Liam leaves the Grecians having enjoyed good times but looking ahead to a fresh challenge with the U’s:
“I’ve been there since I was twelve and have played a lot of games” he said. “It was a proud moment for me to play for the team where I’m from but I think it was the right time to have a change and move on and I feel this is the right place and I can come here and help this club get out of this league. I need a new challenge and I want to test myself somewhere new. This club doesn’t belong in League Two; I want to be part of helping them win promotion.”
Kemar has already become a hero to the U’s fans who welcomed him with open arms (as well as crossed fingers- his trademark goal celebration).
“The stats were really good – twelve starts and six goals and I am very proud of that” Kemar said. “It was a new club so I had to get used to my teammates and the league itself but I think once I got used to it things went my way. The goal at Newport was my favourite and through that game I could hear the support they were giving me . Then at the end they were all there telling me to stay and that was amazing. It played a big part in wanting to come here because the fans have been great.”
The fans played a big part but Head Coach Michael Appleton was also a big factor, having worked with Kemar since they were at West Brom together.
“He’s someone I trust” said Kemar. “The first thing he said when I came here was trust me, I have a plan for you, and everything he said worked. But everyone made me feel welcome. There is a good balance in the squad and you know you are going to come in to work every day and enjoy it; that’s important.”
There is a real determination in Kemar to keep improving, and good news for United fans: he believes there is more to come…
“I think there’s a lot more to come. Only two people really know what I can do and that’s me and my dad. I think I still have to show everyone else my full capability. The target is to show a lot more this season and keep getting better. I’ll be in the gym every day this summer working to come back even stronger. I’m certainly not planning on just putting my feet up over the summer.
“I've always had confidence in myself and now I’m just excited to find out what happens here next season.”
See both players give full interviews in Yellow Player right now.