OXFORD United Women return to pre-season training next week after a winter of upheaval, writes MATTHEW BRUCE.

Long-serving captain Sahara Osborne-Ricketts was one of several key players to be released last month.

Standout performer Kayleigh Hines was sold to Reading for an undisclosed fee, leaving boss Les Taylor with a rebuilding job on his hands.

The U’s hope to add to their squad before their trip to FA Women’s Premier League South leaders Brighton & Hove Albion in the third round of the SSE Women’s FA Cup on February 7, ahead of the start of their Super League 2 campaign in March.

But the Oxford United manager says he is not looking for short-term stop-gaps.

“We don’t want to just plan for this season, we’re looking two or three years ahead,” said Taylor.

“Because there’s still no threat of relegation, which doesn’t come in until next year, we’re able to look at players long-term. We’ve got some talented youngsters coming through who deserve a chance.

“I’m a big believer in promoting young talent.”

For those remaining senior players, such as midfielder Kat Nutman, it means added pressure.

But the 23-year-old, who has been ever-present for United since joining in 2013, is looking forward to playing an even more prominent role.

“I’m excited to be in a position to take on more of the responsibility,” she said.

“Some of our younger players really broke through into the first team last season and I think they have really benefited from the experience they’ve gained.

“I think it’s important that those younger players feel supported so they can express themselves and play with freedom – and I want to help foster that kind of environment here.”

Taylor has already begun the task of recruiting for the new season, bringing in midfielder Lauren Haynes from Aston Villa last week.

A former England under 15 and under 17 international from Bicester, Haynes came through the Arsenal Centre of Excellence before going on to play for Bristol Academy in WSL 1 and Taylor believes she will play an important role this season.

“Lauren has fantastic experience for one so young and has played at a very high level for most of her career.

“She has been part of the England set-up and we believe will do a great job for us in the middle of the park.”

Haynes added: “I feel the club will give me all the tools needed to ultimately become the best footballer I can be.

“I feel I am at my best when I am comfortable and here is a place I feel I will be.”