DANNY Rose says he has returned to Oxford United a more mature player, five years after his first spell came to an end.

The midfielder signed for a second time last month and has been busy getting to know his new teammates during pre-season.

No player remains from Rose’s initial stint with the U’s, when he made 41 appearances in 18 months before being released in May 2008.

After spells with Newport County, Fleetwood Town and Aldershot Town, the 25-year-old is thrilled to be back and is confident supporters will see a big difference from the player Jim Smith brought in from Manchester United.

“After Oxford, I went into the Conference South with Newport – that’s tough football,” he said.

“You really do learn the horrible side of the game and how to win.

“I’ve definitely matured as a player and my knowledge of the game has definitely grown.

“I’m coming back a different player. Before, I was coming out of the Man United reserve team and wanted to just get the ball down and play all the time.

“Having gained the experience I have done, I can do it in a different way.

“There are certain times in a game, especially if you’re away from home, when you have to keep it tight.”

United have been tracking him for some time and made an approach in February, but there was already a commitment on loan to Aldershot for the rest of the season.

Although it was a difficult spell, playing in a side that finished bottom of the table, Rose’s first taste of the Football League showed he could contribute at that level.

He said: “It was about trying to prove to myself I could play at this level.

“I’m more than confident I can stamp my authority on the team.”