AFTER a nomadic start to his playing career, John Lundstram is excited at the prospect of having an opportunity to establish himself at Oxford United.

The midfielder has become a loan ranger since making his senior debut in February 2013, appearing on loan for five different clubs.

Lundstram turned out for three alone last season, but never got to appear for the one he wanted – parent club Everton.

The Toffees released the 21-year-old at the start of a summer which has seen him come close to joining Crewe Alexandra and Wigan Athletic.

United thought a couple of times in recent weeks they had missed the boat, but they made the most of the opportunity.

For Lundstram, a two-year contract offers a chance to truly fulfil his potential.

He said: “I need a full season out there of playing 30- odd games, that’s the reason behind it.

“The aim is to get stability now and play week-in week-out to show everyone what I can do.

“Last season didn’t go how I wanted.

“I went to Blackpool and everyone knows what happened there, so I ended up leaving in January.

“I went back to Leyton Orient because I went there the year before, but it was a different manager and it didn’t quite work out there either.

“I had a good end to the season with Scunthorpe, but I’ve decided to sign for Oxford.

“I had a few offers, but I’m delighted.”

An ankle ligament injury at the very end of last season means the former England youth international is not near match fitness.

United are hoping to arrange a behind-closeddoors friendly to help and he will not be considered for tomorrow’s visit to Luton Town.

Oxford Mail:

  • John Lundstram in training with his new teammates for the first time 

Lundstram joked even at full fitness he did not expect to feature, given the side’s 4-0 hammering of Brentford in the Capital One Cup on Tuesday night.

“I was made up with that – I thought ‘maybe I won’t be able to get in the team now’,” he said.

“I met the gaffer last week and he really impressed me with what he was saying.

“The club is going places, everyone can see that and I’m really excited to get going.”

And while life as a loanee was not ideal, it has ensured United’s new No 18 is no rookie.

He said: “I’ve won League One with Doncaster (in 2013) and played in a playoff final with Leyton Orient (2014).

“I’d like to think I’ve got a bit of experience and I can bring something new to the squad.”