SAM Arnold and Jason Ikin have become the latest players to re-sign for Oxford City Stars.

The defenders are part of a core of players from last season’s squad to commit themselves to the new campaign in National League South Division 1 (NIHL 1).

Arnold came through the junior ranks at Stars, while Australian-born Ikin arrived last season after playing for Bracknell as a youngster.

Simon Anderson, Stars’ head coach, said: “Sam has improved every season and adapted to life in NIHL1, after playing several seasons at NIHL2 level.

“This is a big year for him and the fact that we have so much competition in defence will spur him on.

“Jason handled the huge jump from U18 to NIHL1 with ease last season.

“We will be looking for Jason to ice with our U20 team also, to aid his development.”