CHRISTIAN Ribeiro says Oxford United’s displays last season were all the evidence he needed to join Michael Appleton’s squad.

The 26-year-old, who is predominantly a right back, has become the club’s fourth addition after signing a two-year deal yesterday.

It was a simple decision for Ribeiro, who saw United’s destructive power last season as they beat Exeter City 3-0 at the Kassam Stadium and 4-1 in Devon.

Although injuries meant the defender, capped at senior level by Wales, watched both games from the stands, they made a big impression which did most of Appleton’s recruitment for him.

“They were outstanding,” he said.

“At the time I remember thinking ‘this is a Championship team playing in League Two’ and nothing I have seen since has proved me otherwise.

“They were excellent and it just makes me feel very excited to contribute to that sort of side.

“There’s no reason why this side can’t trouble Championship teams, let alone League One.

“I’ve already seen what damage this team can do to others, so hopefully the standard will be just as high this year.

“That’s why when opportunities like this come, you just have to snap them up.

“(Exeter were) what I considered was a decent team in League Two and Oxford were the only team to do that to us, so I knew full well how strong this side is and I know it’s only going to get stronger.

“This is a club on the up and I just wanted to be part of that.”

Ribeiro’s confidence in United’s ability to make an impact in League One this season meant more lucrative offers from elsewhere were rejected.

He said: “I had opportunities to earn a bit more.

“There are people out there who play for the money, but I’m nowhere near that.

“Money doesn’t fuel my ambition.

“Being at clubs like this is where hungry players that want to achieve something, need to be.

“That’s why Oxford sprung out to me – there was something that could really be achieved here.”

Highlights from Oxford United's wins over Exeter City last season, via the club's official Youtube channel: