Oxford United midfielder Josh Ruffels has signed a new long-term contract to keep him at the Division Four club until 2018.

The 20-year-old, who began his career with the Us before joining Coventry City, has put pen to paper on a brand new four-year deal, consisting of two definite years plus the club option of a further two years.

Ruffels only joined the Yellows last summer, but has worked his way into this season’s first-team plans after scoring one goal in his 31 appearances for the club this campaign.

The Kidlington-born youngster initially agreed to link up with Oxford’s development squad this term, but his terrific performances across the tenures of three different managers this year has seen him become one of the league’s hottest young prospects.

“I have loved being back at Oxford,” explained Ruffels.

“The whole club is so positive and I look forward to coming in to training every day. I was looking to get a few first team games this season if I could but the way things have worked out, I have played a lot more than I expected and my game has developed much further in the Oxford United system.

“The senior players have helped me a lot but all the young players here now know, under the new manager, that we have a chance of pushing into the first team if we work hard and play well.

“I am very happy to be part of what the club is trying to build and hopefully we can finish this season with one last push into the play-off places.”

Boss Gary Waddock, who only succeeded current Northampton Town manager Chris Wilder at the helm less than four weeks ago, was similarly impressed with Ruffels’ attributes.

He explained: “I am a firm believer in giving good young players a chance and I think the fans really get behind them, particularly if they are local lads.

“Josh has played every game for me so far and done really well this season. He works hard at his game and has a very bright future ahead. I am delighted that his future will be at Oxford United.”

United chairman Ian Lenagan was also quick to praise Ruffels’ progression: “This signing, following that of Josh Ashby, shows clearly our long-term determination to invest in and build a strong future of talented young players for Oxford United.”

“Tomorrow’s game against York is of huge importance to the club’s promotion ambitions and I would call upon many of the occasional Oxford fans who were there at Wembley for the last big game against York to turn up on Good Friday to support the team actively and to support Josh Ruffels who has shown his commitment to the club.”