NATHAN Holland has returned to Oxford United on a season-long loan.

The winger makes the temporary move from West Ham United for the second time, having previously joined in January 2020.

Holland’s first spell with the U’s lasted just two months before he tore his hamstring, although the coronavirus pandemic halted the season anyway.

Despite featuring only 12 times, the 23-year-old made an impression and volleyed home a memorable last-minute winner against Newcastle United in an Emirates FA Cup fourth round replay.

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With the start of the Sky Bet League One season nine days away, Holland is determined to pick up where he left off.

He said: “I feel like I’m back for unfinished business.

“With Covid and injuries the loan spell was cut short, but when I did play I thoroughly enjoyed it.

“This time I’ve come in with the experience of League One, whereas last time it was an unknown for me.

“I’m sure I can settle in very quickly. I know what to expect this time.”

Holland joined West Ham in 2017, after coming through Everton’s youth set-up and winning England caps at every level from Under 16 to Under 19.

The forward caught the eye in the Hammers’ 4-0 Carabao Cup third round defeat to United in September 2019 and moved to the Kassam Stadium the following January.

Holland scored three times – his other two goals coming in a 5-0 win over AFC Wimbledon - but tore his hamstring in the 3-2 victory at Shrewsbury Town on March 7 last year, the U’s final game before Covid halted the season.

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He was out for nine months, but returned for West Ham against Peterborough United in the Papa John’s Trophy last December and built up game-time for the club's Under 23s in Premier League 2.

Holland has featured in all of the London side’s first-team friendlies this summer, scoring once, and is keen to make up for lost time.

He said: “Especially after the injuries I’ve had, I feel very eager and excited to get going.

“Hopefully I can get out there and show everyone what I can do.

“I did my rehab from my injury and had a few issues last year, but I’ve started pre-season well and got a few valuable minutes under my belt.”

Holland is United’s first loan signing of the summer, following the permanent transfers of Marcus McGuane, Ryan Williams, Billy Bodin and Steve Seddon.

He will wear No 27, having taken that shirt in his first loan spell.