DOMINIC Hopkins and Alex Staples have become the first players to sign on at Oxford City Stars for next season.

The pair formed an excellent defensive partnership last season to help the Oxpens side win the league and cup double.

Hopkins, 37, was voted supporters’ player of the year, while Staples, 28, finished the campaign as captain.

Kenny Redmond, Stars’ head coach, said: “It’s excellent news.

“They’re both great players are characters and have the right attitude.

“There was plenty of interest in them both from other clubs, so I’m delighted to have re-signed them.”