After failing in their audacious attempt to sign Real Madrid reserve Michael Owen*, Oxford United have instead turned their attentions to Brentford midfielder Chris Hargreaves. The 33 year old former Northampton player today signed for United on a two-year deal.

Hargreaves joined the Bees at the start of last season, also on a two year deal, but he and Brentford boss Martin Allen mutually agreed that he could leave mid-contract. Hargreaves formerly played for various other clubs, including West Brom and Plymouth, and is very experience. Crucially, he also provides the side with a Lucas Cominelli hairstyle.

Hargreaves is Talbot’s fifth signing of the summer, and although Talbot looks to have ruled out bringing in a new striker to replace Tommy Mooney, it is likely that he will now have to seek a replacement for Terry Parker. In addition, Stuart Beavon is joining the club for a trial following his heroics for Didcot Town in the FA Vase final, where his two goals helped the Railwaymen to a 3-2 win over some other non-league side. Beavon is likely to feature in the youth team’s game at Ardley United, this Saturday at 3.00pm.

In other news, OxVox have introduced an online payment facility to enable the lazy and chequebookless to donate to the Oakley Waterman static home appeal.

*not really.