OXFORD United are optimistic about their chances of extending Jordan Evans’s loan from Fulham for the rest of the season.

The 20-year-old’s initial deal from Fulham expires after the home game with Bristol Rovers next weekend.

So far the left back, who had no senior experience before arriving at United, has started one game and made three appearances off the bench.

It included a stunning long-range goal in their 3-2 Johnstone’s Paint Trophy victory against Yeovil Town last month.

Evans has provided useful cover for Joe Skarz, and U’s head coach Michael Appleton is upbeat about the prospect of keeping the rookie beyond January.

“The conversations I’ve had with Fulham and Jordan I’m fairly confident he will want to stay," he said.

“I understand he would want to play more football, but he’s certainly had a decent amount for a young lad who has never been out (on loan) before.”

Evans is available to feature in United’s Emirates FA Cup tie against Swansea City on Sunday, unlike fellow loanee Chris Maguire, who has not been permitted to play in the competition by parent club Rotherham United.