Sam Humphreys was thrilled to finally make his senior debut for Oxford United, 12 years after joining the club.

The winger, from Chipping Norton, was a late substitute as the U’s won 1-0 at Newport County in the season finale.

Humphreys, 19, has spent almost two-thirds of his life at United and has been an unused substitute several times this season, so it meant a huge amount to play with just a couple of minutes left.

He said: “It felt really good.

“I’ve been at the club since I was seven, so it’s always been an aim to first get a pro contract, and then try to get in the team.

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“I know it’s the last game of the season, but it’s still a big I know it’s the last game of the season, but it’s still a big achievement for me achievement for me.”

Humphreys’ involvement in the squad at Newport, as with Sam Long and Aidan Hawtin, hinted the trio will be staying at United next season.

The club have a 12-month option on the first year professionals, which looks set to be activated this week.

Humphreys’ debut almost got even better in the dying seconds.

With County chasing an equaliser, their goalkeeper Jamie Stephens joined the attack for a corner.

When United cleared they had Patrick Hoban and Humphreys against one defender, but the final whistle halted their charge.

Humphreys said: “The ref killed me a bit there, but I spoke to Pat and he said he was shooting.

“I would’ve tried to run on to it, but the ref blew the whistle so it wasn't to be."