MATTY Taylor admitted Oxford United’s Sky Bet League One play-off final defeat this month hardened his resolve to return on a permanent deal.

There had been concerns the side’s failure to win promotion, losing 2-1 to Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley, would see the striker - on loan from Bristol City - move elsewhere.

But it turned out to be the opposite for the 30-year-old, who now has unfinished business to settle after agreeing a three-year deal.

He said: “It just felt, especially for the whole group of lads and the whole club it was going to happen and we deserved it from our efforts all season.

“Something in me wanted to hopefully put right what happened in the final. I'd like nothing more than to get promoted with my home town club.”

More than a fortnight on, the result is still painful – but the front man intends to use it as fuel for the fire next term.

“I've had to switch off from it all for a couple of weeks,” Taylor said.

“I've not managed to watch it back, I can't bring myself to do that.

“It's still a bit raw but I don't think you can forget it, because you have to learn the reasons why we didn't get over the line. We have to try to improve again next year.

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“If you had seen the changing room after the game, it was soulless. It was silent and there were a few tears in there.

“I think if you're ever looking for a bit of motivation (next season) you've just got to think back to that moment and realise you don't want that ever again in your career.

“We stayed out and watched Wycombe celebrate. We want to be in their shoes next time.”