LIAM Sercombe is relishing life at Oxford United and believes the U’s have all the ingredients to achieve promotion – despite setbacks in their last two matches.

The midfielder, who opened the scoring in Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Portsmouth, has proved a pivotal figure in United’s side this season since joining from Exeter City in the summer .

The 25-year-old was forced to sit out the 1-0 defeat at Northampton Town a fortnight ago through suspension, but produced a man-of-the-match performance against Pompey.

And he believes the bumper gate at the Kassam Stadium, coupled with an impressive first half display, goes a long way to justifying his decision to join Michael Appleton’s side.

“It’s been a decent start to the season, but we know we maybe should be winning more games than we are,” he said.

“We weren’t at our best against Northampton and we should have taken our chances against Portsmouth.

“We have had a tough start, but we set ourselves points targets and as long as we meet those we will be OK.”

He added: “Saturday’s game was a great one to be involved in.

“It’s all about the atmosphere and we all loved it.

“I knew there were big ambitions here and I wanted big games every week like that one.

“The fans were quality, and hopefully that continues and we give them something to cheer about come the end of the season.”

Sercombe started the season in central midfield with Danny Rose, but on Saturday was partnered by John Lundstram with Rose pushed out to the right flank.

But for the majority of the first half the trio ran rings around their Portsmouth counterparts, and Sercombe believes their understanding bodes well.

“It is pretty easy to play well with them when you know what they are going to do,” he said.

“They are two quality players and to have an understanding so early on is a big bonus.”

Sercombe’s goal was his second of the season, but the midfielder is hoping his next proves even more valuable.

“I was delighted to score, but I would rather have won the game,” he said.

  • FORMER Oxford United player Richard Hill yesterday resigned as the manager of Vanarama National League side Eastleigh.