Michael Collins has become Michael Appleton’s first summer signing as Oxford United manager.

The 28 year-old midfielder arrives at the Kassam Stadium on a one-year deal with the option for a further year.

Collins was released by Division Three bound Scunthorpe United in May following their promotion from the bottom tier last season.

The former Republic of Ireland Under-21 international started his career at Huddersfield Town, making over 200 appearances including 20 goals.

Collins then sealed a switch to the Championship with the Irons, where he went onto score four goals in 89 games for Scunthorpe before enjoying a loan spell at AFC Wimbledon in the latter stages of the previous campaign.

New U’s boss Appleton believes Collins can make a huge impact for United this season: “We have a young squad and a small squad and we know we need a few experienced additions.

“Michael has played 300 league games, most of them at a higher level, and will bring a little bit of know-how and quality to the squad. He is a good player and adds something different to what we currently have in midfield.

“He likes to win the ball back, he can dominate the centre of the park and he has attacking attributes as well so I am delighted that he has joined us.

“He has won promotions, he knows the league and at six foot he has a presence about him as well. We will continue to work hard to bring players in and hopefully there will be a few other new faces arriving soon as well.”

Collins is excited about the challenges that lie ahead for him at Oxford: “I was really impressed by what Michael told me about the club and what the new owners want to happen. Something looks to be happening at Oxford and I am excited to be part of it.

“I know one or two of the lads from my time at Scunthorpe and they have told me a lot of good things about the set-up and the fans so I can’t wait to get started now.”

In other news, Oxford United’s league fixture away to Cambridge United will be shown live on Sky Sports.

The Yellows’ trip to the newly promoted outfit at The R Costings Abbey Stadium will be televised live after the kick-off time was adjusted to 12:15pm.