Oxford United

There’s a new face in the Oxford United squad when they line up to face Forest Green Rovers in the Papa John’s Trophy at the Kassam Stadium on Tuesday.

Striker Gatlin O’Donkor will be asked to step up straight from the under 16s in to the First Team Squad having impressed everyone who has already seen him make the move up in to the under 18s side this season.

Gatlin, at 16 years and 55 days, would be the youngest player ever to appear for the U’s should he get on to the pitch and First Team Coach Craig Short told us:

“He’s been great today. We have liked what we have seen of him this season and people speak very highly of him. This competition is all about giving youngsters a chance so we spoke to the Academy staff and then had to ring his school to get him out of classes and up to the Training Ground to join in.

“He trotted over, introduced himself and then senior players like John Mousinho made him feel at home straight away. He is quick, he has good movement and it’s part of his development to be with us tomorrow and be on the bench.”

It’s going to be a great chance for fans to see the U’s in action once again in person. 2,000 tickets are available for fans to come and join us at the game. Visit oufctickets.co.uk to book your place (subject to availability and social distancing rules)

See the full interview with Craig and chats with U18 coach Chris Hackett, midfielder Jamie Hanson and Sean Clare, all in iFollow where you can also view the game at home for just £10.

CLICK HERE to buy your match pass

Oxford United’s all-time youngest players (1949 to present):