TRIALLIST Udanta Singh has thanked Oxford United’s “aggressive training” after returning to India following a four-month stay.

The 19-year-old plays for Bengaluru, managed by Ashley Westwood, who worked under Michael Appleton at Portsmouth, Blackpool and Blackburn Rovers.

Singh arrived in the summer and has spent the close season of the I-League training with the U’s.

Appleton said at the time the arrangement was more about exploring the potential of building links with India rather than with a view to signing the striker.

After returning home, Singh was grateful to have experienced a steep learning curve while working at Roman Way.

He told Bengaluru’s website: “Everything was more aggressive at Oxford.

“There were no friends on the pitch and it has taught me a lot.

“Appleton was very vocal with his instructions, teaching me how to position myself and how to make better use of my off-the-ball running.”

Westwood said: “I can see a difference in him already even after just three or four days with us.

“It looks like he’s toughened up and and that was always the aim.”