Chris Wilder has signed a new three-year contract as Oxford United’s manager.

And he immediately set his sights on seeing just how far the club can go.

Wilder, who was appointed United’s boss in December 2008, signed an improved deal last season after there was interest from Burton Albion.

But after steering the U’s to promotion, the club activated a clause in his old contract about fresh terms.

Both Wilder and chairman Kelvin Thomas were delighted that the former Halifax boss has put pen to paper.

“We started discussing it in the summer,” Wilder said.

“But I wanted to make sure that we got off to a decent start to the season before I signed it – but I think we have done that and so there was no hesitation in signing.

“So I am delighted to get it all sorted and hope we can continue to build on what we have here.”

Thomas added: “We saw a desire, hunger and dedication before we appointed Chris.

“And I am delighted with how things have worked out for everybody here.

“His work ethic has really impressed me and he is obviously a massive part of the jigsaw in what we are trying to achieve.

“We felt it was right to reward his efforts and are pleased that Chris will be here for the forseeable future.”

Wilder decided against making predictions about what is a realistic target for Oxford United long-term.

But he said that there can be more good times ahead if everyone connected with the club keeps the same philosophy.

“We have the facilities, the infrastructure and the support to keep progressing,” he added.

“How far you can go is obviously dependant on the financial aspect, but with the chairman’s hard work and foresight, as well as the drive of everyone connected with the club, we have the major ingredients at our disposal to go forward.

“There are so many good things at Oxford United.

“When I came in, we worked hard on changing the whole philosophy at the club and I feel we have done that.

“But not once do we rest on our laurels. We keep driving forwards, look to improve anything that we can – and never get carried away with things.

“There are no black clouds over the club now – we are all driven by making Oxford United better and better, and we will continue to do that.”