Defender Sam Long has penned a new two-year contract at Oxford United.

The 20-year-old, who came through the clubs youth academy, made 10 appearances for the Us last season, including his first senior goal against Southend United back in January.

Long, who can deputise along the entire row of the back four, is now contracted to stay at the Kassam Stadium until 2017.

He said: “It was a straightforward decision.

“It’s been a long summer trying to sort it out but I’m happy now. I’m going to come back and work as hard as I can to give myself the best possible chance to get in the starting line-up.

“I’ve kept myself in good shape over the summer and can’t wait to get back into pre-season.”

However, one player who is looking increasingly unlikely to join United’s defence this summer is Alfie Mawson.

The 21-year-old centre-back impressed whilst on loan at fellow Division Four outfit Wycombe Wanderers last season, scoring seven goals to help the Chairboys reach the play-off final.

After turning down a new contract at parent club Brentford earlier this summer, Oxford were keen on the defenders services, although manager Michael Appleton is set to ultimately miss out with the likes of Bradford City, Millwall and rivals Swindon Town also reportedly interested.