Oxford United have offered professional contracts to striker James Roberts and winger Sam Humphreys.

The Us regard the youngsters as promising players for the future, with the club confirming they had been offered their first professional deal following their two-year scholarships.

Roberts, 17, has scored 22 goals this season for Chris Allen’s thriving youth side, while 18-year-old Humphreys has impressively netted eleven times for the Yellows from midfield.

Providing they agree personal terms, the young Oxford duo will join teammate Josh Ashby, who signed a new long-term contract at the Kassam Stadium back in February.

However, Roberts and Humphrey’s joy is met with sadness from their youth companions as fellow second-year scholars Josh Hill, Conor Ingram, Duran Martin, James Clarke, Greg Hackett, Jamie Calvin and Marvin Ekpiteta will all be released at the end of the season.

Despite the anguish of seeing seven of his scholars leave the club this summer, youth team coach Allen had huge applause for both Roberts and Humphreys: “They have both done extremely well.

“Robbo has scored goals ever since he arrived at the club and been our top scorer for the least two years while Sam has been outstanding and very consistent.

“They are both intelligent lads who want to learn and want to work hard and I am sure they will go on to have terrific careers.”

Meanwhile first-team manager Gary Waddock added: “I am pleased for the two lads. They have great attitudes and it is always good to see players do well at their local side.

“The fans always get behind them and want them to succeed and along with Josh Ashby they now have a wonderful opportunity here.”