RYAN Williams is hoping recent performances have proven his worth at Oxford United to earn an extended run in the side.

The winger, on loan from Fulham, took time to find his feet, but is becoming increasingly influential.

Against Gateshead in the FA Cup a fortnight ago he changed the game after coming on from the bench as the U’s hit back from 2-0 down to force a replay.

He followed it with his best display last Saturday.

Williams finished with an assist and a goal in the 3-1 win at Mansfield Town.

The Australian was delighted with the performance and thinks he is making progress.

“For sure, not only fitness but obviously experience at a first-team level,” he said.

“It’s hard being at a Premier League club to just jump into the first team.

“We just have to work our way up slowly and I’m still quite young, so there is no rush really.

“I just need to try and play as best I can, improve myself and see what happens from there.

“It shows I'm not here just to make up the numbers.”

It should be enough to keep his shirt for the visit of Morecambe tomorrow and the improvement has come just at the right time, with Alfie Potter recovering from ankle surgery.

The right winger is expected to be out until well into the new year, giving Williams an opportunity to establish himself before the loan expires on January 1.

The 20-year-old, who had never started a senior game before this season, has now played more competitive football for United than any of his former sides.

Williams is open to staying if both clubs agree to an extension.

U’s assistant manager Mickey Lewis has been impressed with the youngster and believes he has the ability to step into Potter’s shoes.

“This is the thing with injuries, you never want them, but it gives other people opportunities and Ryan took his,” he said.

“The lad has an awful lot of talent.

“He is at a top football club with Fulham, but he has come here and been a really good lad.

“He hasn’t played all the time, but has eased himself in with 45 minutes here and there.

“He is still learning the game and even though he has come from Fulham, like any player he needs first-team games.

“I thought he was excellent against Mansfield.”