Oxford United secure longer deals for Jordan Evans and Jonny Giles

Winger Jonny Giles, whose short-term deal was due to expire in the summer, has also signed a new contract and will now stay at the club until the end of the 2016-17 season.

Evans has started two games since arriving in November, including last night's 2-0 win at Millwall in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy area final.

The left back scored a long range effort in the previous round, a 3-2 win against Yeovil Town and will provide useful back up to Joe Skarz for the rest of the campaign.

Michael Appleton, United's head coach, said: "Jordan is very highly regarded at Fulham and within the Wales set-up.

"He has found it difficult to get chances in matches so far but his time will come and anyone who saw him score that goal against Yeovil will know what a talent he is."

Evans said: "I’ve loved every minute of my time at the club so far and I’m more than happy to have extended it to the end of the season.

“I’d have liked to have played more but it has been great to be involved and to train with the squad every day."

Appleton was also pleased to reward Giles for the progress he has made since joining from playing university football.

He said: "We took a punt on him coming straight out of university and into professional football.

"He is very raw but he definitely has something.

"Almost every day in training or in a match he will do something that catches the eye and gets you wondering how good he might become."

• Jonny Giles signed in September after graduating from university

Giles said: “It means I’ve got a bit more time to get my opportunity and more time to improve.

"I don’t have to worry about what’s going to happen in the summer and it’s nice to have that reassurance that I’ve been doing well.

“I do feel like I’ve improved quite a lot in the last couple of months and it’s nice to know that the club, which has shown faith in me, is showing faith in me now as well with the extra year and I hope I can repay them.”