OXFORD United’s lack of signings so far this summer is no cause for alarm, says new first-team coach Shaun Derry.

With five weeks of the close season completed, Cameron Norman is the only player to join the squad for the new campaign.

But while the wait for news has frustrated some supporters, United are not alone in having a quiet start – half the clubs in Sky Bet League One are a similar position.

Karl Robinson’s side are one of half a dozen to announce just one deal, while another six clubs are yet to bring in anyone.

As of yesterday, AFC Wimbledon, Barnsley, Burton Albion, Charlton Athletic, Sunderland and Wycombe Wanderers were all still waiting to complete their first deal.

Derry, who joined last week, expects the market to accelerate in the run-up to players returning for pre-season at the end of June and sees no reason for concern.

“Absolutely not, this is normal,” he said. “It’s very difficult to commit to players at this stage of the season, purely because a lot of them are away.

“I think that’s something that has to be understood – after a long season, players do need that break.

“We’re probably now entering that time when they will want to come back and make that decision on where they’re going to play next.”

He added: “It’s no surprise to me.

“Everybody wants the squad to be in place 24 hours after the season’s ended, but it’s just not the case.

“From a footballing angle, you need to take stock and make sure your due diligence is done properly. That’s what’s taking place here at Oxford.”

Derry’s arrival adds an extra layer of knowledge to United’s recruitment department, following spells in charge of Notts County and Cambridge United.

And he is hoping to contribute to the club’s search, especially when it comes to unearthing talent from the division below.

He said: “I know League Two and the players that are available.

“I’ll give my opinion and we’ll all have a say, but ultimately it comes down to the manager.

“They have to have the final say because you live and die by your recruitment and your judgement of results.

“If I can be any help along the way to Karl and the recruitment team then of course I’ll give my opinion.”